ABSTRACT
Mental health transcends the absence of illness, encompassing well-being, resilience, and functional societal contribution. Rooted in a bio-psycho-social framework, mental health reflects dynamic interactions among personal traits, social environments, and life events. Early adversity, nurturing environments, and societal influences shape mental health outcomes throughout life stages. Recent decades have witnessed substantial advancements in mental healthcare delivery in India, transitioning from institutional care to integrated, community-based models. Legislative and policy milestones, such as the Mental Healthcare Act of 2017 and the National Mental Health Policy of 2014, underscore efforts to ensure accessibility, reduce stigma, and uphold patients’ rights.
Despite progress, challenges persist, including inadequate human resources, uneven service distribution, and limited community engagement. Addressing mental health requires a multi-stakeholder approach involving healthcare systems, policymakers, civil society organisations, educators, employers, and media. Healthcare systems must integrate mental health into general care, ensuring a holistic approach. Policies should prioritise community-based interventions, equitable resource allocation, and preventive measures. Civil society, educational institutions, workplaces, and community leaders play pivotal roles in awareness, early intervention, and fostering supportive environments.
The chapter emphasises the significance and need for primordial and primary prevention strategies, such as physical activity, yoga, and healthy parenting, to build resilience and mitigate mental health challenges. Collaborative efforts across sectors can create enabling environments, reduce stigma, and ensure access to mental health resources. By exploring key determinants, challenges, and opportunities, this chapter highlights critical policy areas for reform and envisions an inclusive mental healthcare framework that supports mental well-being and equitable care for all.
