Lakhasly

In their article pertaining to MHCA 2017, the authors,[4] critically evaluate the pros and cons of the new ACT.There is an equal and strong need to involve the caregivers in framing mental health policies that are ethically and legally sound and at the same time tailoring to their needs and the ground realities of this developing country, such as poverty, illiteracy, unawareness regarding mental illness, stigma, discrimination, etc.They commend the act for endorsing the rights (especially insurance) of PWMI and recommending decriminalization of suicide and the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, questioning/queer (LGBTQ) community.The caregivers of PWMI are the real ambassadors of mental health; they sincerely understand the genuine service that psychiatrists have provided in this country over many decades.They also mention the non-representation of the Indian Psychiatric Society and inadequate address of the burden of care experienced by the caregivers.

In their article pertaining to MHCA 2017, the authors,[4] critically evaluate the pros and cons of the new ACT. They commend the act for endorsing the rights (especially insurance) of PWMI and recommending decriminalization of suicide and the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, questioning/queer (LGBTQ) community. They also mention the non-representation of the Indian Psychiatric Society and inadequate address of the burden of care experienced by the caregivers. The caregivers of PWMI are the real ambassadors of mental health; they sincerely understand the genuine service that psychiatrists have provided in this country over many decades. No doubt, human rights of PWMI have to be protected at all times; however, it cannot be one-sided. There is an equal and strong need to involve the caregivers in framing mental health policies that are ethically and legally sound and at the same time tailoring to their needs and the ground realities of this developing country, such as poverty, illiteracy, unawareness regarding mental illness, stigma, discrimination, etc. In view of the new challenges thrown by MHCA 2017, such as mental health capacity assessment, advance directive, nominated representative, etc., the authors stress regarding the need to actively collaborate with “the media, police, NGOs, human rights activists … and police.