Mental health and human rights: An Indian inquiry

Abstract

The current paper contextualizes mental health from a human rights-based perspective. It traces the multifarious efforts for realization of human rights of persons with mental illness in the Indian context. Alluding to the stigma and ostracism faced by the individuals with mental illness from their families and communities, the paper discusses the challenges to their care and essential treatment/services and available support. The paper also proposes few eclectic strategies for creation of an enabling and inclusive environment for persons with mental illness.