Section Article

Mental Health and Social Stigma in India: Gaps in Policy and Practice
Author(s): Sidhhart Yadav

Abstract
Mental health once considered a peripheral concern in India’s public health discourse has recently gained policy attention due to rising awareness increasing urban stress and global advocacy. However despite legislative reforms and national programs the treatment and perception of mental health in India remain inadequate. A major obstacle in achieving a functional and inclusive mental health care system is the deeply entrenched social stigma surrounding psychological disorders. This paper explores the complex interplay between mental health stigma and policy frameworks in India. It critically assesses the gap between legislative intent and implementation evaluates community perceptions of mental illness and underscores the systemic shortcomings in infrastructure awareness and workforce availability. Through an analysis of social attitudes public health policies and lived realities the paper proposes a set of recommendations for bridging these policy-practice gaps and creating a compassionate accessible and stigma-free mental health ecosystem in India.