Message by NHRC Member and Chair –Core Group on Mental Health, Mr. Justice M. M. Kumar on World Mental Health Day

New Delhi, 10th October, 2022

“October 10 is an historical day for Mental Health world over. The World Health Organization recognizes the day as ‘World Mental Health Day’. As we all recuperate from the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become abundantly clear that hardly any nation was prepared for the ensuing mental health catastrophe and other long-term effects of the virus.

“Make Mental Health & Well-Being for all a Global Priority” is the theme of world Mental Health Day of 2022. It offers us an opportunity to re-ignite our efforts to identify and address the mental health concerns of our country and the world at large. The purpose of spreading awareness about Mental Health Day serves as a reminder that maintaining good mental health is equally vital as physical health. Mental health related issues and disorders like anxiety, depression, substance dependence often go unnoticed, unlike physical problems, like diabetes or a broken toe, for they show visible symptoms.

I would also like to highlight that people with mental health disorders continue to experience social stigma, discrimination and violations of their basic human rights all over the world and in our country too. It must be dealt with on top priority. I believe that shame and denial must be kept aside and mental health concerns must be efficiently addressed, starting with appropriate and effective awareness campaigns. The key to eliminate the apathy can be found in increasing mental health awareness and open talks. In view of seeing mental health treatments as part of a continuum that offers whole care, there is a need to develop a multi-pronged approach too since mental health issues have several facets. It is time to come together and work towards adopting a fresh strategy with renewed zeal.

We witnessed the challenges concerning mental health during our comprehensive inspections of Gwalior, Agra and Ranchi Mental Hospitals. The Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 has hardly been implemented either in letter or in spirit. However, we could see the efforts made by all the stakeholders, including all front line workers. I would, therefore, take this opportunity to appreciate all such efforts and enthusiasm of the service providers of our country working for mental health.

Let a human become medicine for another human being – a helping hand for those who need our help on Mental Health issues.

I also greet members of our Core Group which is comprised of eminent doctors and policy makers.”

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