Mental Healthcare Access in India: Models, Trends, and Challenges

Mental health issues are common health-related issues in India affecting approximately one in five people. Despite being a common health issue, there is a huge treatment gap (approximately 85%) which ultimately results in significant disability and impairment for the individual suffering from mental illness. Also, the burden on the caregivers is significant. Over the past several decades there has been a change in the mental health legislative framework, policy as well as program. The government has also taken initiatives to strengthen the workforce of mental health and the infrastructures. This chapter discusses the current mental health access scenario in India, changing trends in mental health delivery and the challenges faced.