The Mental Healthcare Act 2017 is a rights-based law for people with mental illness in India.
Knowing these rights helps patients and families make informed decisions.
Key concepts
- Right to access affordable mental healthcare
- Right to make an advance directive and nominate a representative
- A person who attempts suicide is presumed to be under severe stress and should get care, not punishment
Symptoms and signs
- Right to confidentiality of information
- Right to live in the community and not be chained or isolated
- Right to information about diagnosis and treatment
Causes
- Historical neglect and abuse in institutions
- India's commitment to the UN disability rights convention
- Need for consent-based care
Risk factors
- Unaware patients may not claim rights
- Unregulated 'centres' that confine people
- Insurance exclusions despite legal requirements
Evidence-based management
- Ask questions about your diagnosis and options
- Consider an advance directive if you have a recurrent illness
- Insurance must cover mental illness on par with physical illness
- Complaints can go to the State Mental Health Authority
When to seek professional help
- You can book an online consultation for a confidential assessment
- Rights being violated in a facility
- Thoughts of suicide or self-harm — call Tele-MANAS 14416 or 112 now
Frequently asked questions
Is attempted suicide still a crime?
Under the MHCA 2017, a person who attempts suicide is presumed to have severe stress and should receive care.
Does health insurance cover psychiatric treatment?
The law requires parity; check your policy terms and ask the insurer in writing.
Medical references
Guidelines and official sources used for this article.
- The Mental Healthcare Act, 2017. Government of India.
- National Mental Health Survey of India, 2015–16. NIMHANS, Bengaluru, 2016.
- Author
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
- Medical reviewer
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MD Psychiatry
- Last reviewed
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for personal medical advice.
Related articles
Related guides
Need personal advice? Book a confidential consultation.