Mental illness in India: Human Rights Perspective Ms. Majumdar Sumana1, Dr. Sukai Tarun Bikash2 1Research Scholar, Department of Social Work, Assam University, Silchar 2Asst. Professor, Department of Social Work, Assam University, Silchar Online published on 9 April, 2015. Abstract Mental illness is any illness experienced by a person which affects their emotions, thoughts or behaviour, which is out of keeping with their cultural beliefs and personality, and is producing a negative effect on their lives or the lives of their families. According to the World Health Organization, over 80% of people suffering from mental disorders such as epilepsy, schizophrenia, depression, intellectual disability, alcohol use disorders and those committing suicide are living in low-and middleincome countries. Mental disorders are responsible for twelve to fifteen percent of the total global burden of disease—a greater percentage than cardiovascular disease and twice as much as all cancers combined. By 2030, depression is forecasted to be the single highest contributor to the burden of disease in the world. All people with mental health problems have the right to live their lives without arbitrary or inappropriate interference. People affected by mental illness are among the most vulnerable and disadvantaged in our community. They are doubly challenged. On the one hand, they are suffering and struggling with the symptoms and the disabilities due to the disease and on the other, they are experiencing stigma and discrimination that stem out from the misconceptions about mental illness till this century. They suffer from widespread, systemic discrimination and are consistently denied the rights and services to which they are entitled. As a result of these, good jobs, safe shelter and satisfactory health care services i.e. their quality of life have been denied. This paper seeks to pay attention to the stigma and discrimination prevailing in the society for people with mental illness. This paper also discussed few National and International Standards meant to protect their Right to Health and also suggested some possible measures to help them to live with dignity. Top Keywords Mental Health, Mental Illness, Stigma, Discrimination, Right to Health, HumanRights, UNDHR, WHO, Constitution of India. Top |