After 6 years the collective voice of the citizens of Chandigarh has been heard.

The Chandigarh Administration has recently built an exemplary residential facility to ensure the well-being of individuals with mental illnesses and intellectual disabilities (Parul, 2024). Spanning over two acres, this facility boasts facilities to house 90 residents, with options for room occupancy, two courtyards, lush green gardens, open spaces, and a therapeutic campus-making it the largest government group home in India. The managing body, UTTHAAN Group Home Society, has even included representatives of individuals with mental illnesses and intellectual disabilities as well as mental health professionals to ensure effective treatment. The biggest obstacle faced by those wishing to avail themselves of these services now remains financial costs. However, the support provided by many community members, including famous mental health professionals offering pro bono services, garners hope of finding financial solutions.

The National Mental Health Survey of India released a report nearly a decade ago, highlighting the lifetime mental morbidity rate of those surveyed to be 13.7% and a treatment gap ranging between 70% and 92% for different disorders (Murthy, 2017). Considering the events that have occurred since, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, rates have reportedly increased; the Economic Survey 2023-24 has also captured this rise, calling for action to be taken to reduce the rapidly rising cases of mental health issues (PTI, 2024). Observing these statistics, a call to action is prominent. The Indian laws, such as the Mental Healthcare Act, clearly state that there should be establishments in every state for caring for individuals with mental illnesses and highlight community-based centres (Mental Healthcare Act, 2017). Despite legal precedents, several Indian states do not have the required facilities. Chandigarh is one of the first to set up an exemplary establishment, investing Rs. 35 crore to erect what is not only a building but a beacon of hope for families all across India.

The facility in Chandigarh marks a significant step forward in the field of mental health in India. The establishment signifies a shift from the traditional methods and models of mental healthcare in India to a more community-based approach. The transition places a deep emphasis on the integration of the community, symbolising the efforts put in by the entire community. The supportive environment reaps a lot of benefits for individuals who are often isolated, and this is a step in the right direction. The integration of residents with mental illnesses and intellectual disabilities into the community allows them to engage in social activities and feel connected to the community. Further, the facility marks a significant difference from the older patterns of marginalization that adults with intellectual disabilities and mental health challenges have been historically projected to. The creation of a space where individuals can avail personalized care and remain in touch with the community answers long-neglected needs of rehabilitation options that are residential and focus on improving life while maintaining the individual’s dignity.

In addition, the management of the facility is headed by an inclusive board that displays the importance of collaboration between stakeholders—an approach that has numerous benefits. Having mental health professionals on board will ensure that services are provided by trained professionals, incorporating techniques by evidence-based approaches, and will be personalized to every resident. Further, including family representatives will ensure that families feel empowered and will allow for an inclusive environment to be created. Holistic care which caters to improving the resident’s quality of life, can be promoted owing to the spaces provided in this establishment. Open areas, gardens, and courtyards can allow for a variety of recreational activities and vocational training, while the therapeutic spaces can allow for efficient and effective delivery of therapeutic services. Residents here are given much more than just accommodation, providing an opportunity for them to build their skills and take up activities to ensure personal growth. The impact of the creation of this infrastructure in Chandigarh goes beyond a local effect; the building is a testament to decreasing the stigma that strongly surrounds mental health issues in India. By creating this space, a sense of understanding is fostered between patients themselves, as well as with the larger community. Having family and community members actively involved in the process and educating them, the stigma is further decreased as acceptance and communal understanding increase. Further, the involvement of family members will help them be more aware of what their loved one is going through, how they can help, and boost the recovery process for them. The longitudinal impacts can help in reducing future hospitalization rates as well. This home provides a safe environment for patients where they are given personalized, and consistent care that allows them to flourish. It provides a deep sense of comfort and stability, which can reduce the need for repeated hospitalization that may result from certain mental illnesses. Not only would this lead to improved quality of life and standard of living for the patient, but it would also prevent additional strains on the healthcare sector in the country.

This group home in Chandigarh is a testament to what can be achieved to reduce the increasing mental health crisis in India and give citizens access to facilities and the care that they deserve. The benefits that come along with community-focused arrangements can help the community as a whole to flourish. Group homes such as the one built in Chandigarh address the needs of the hour while also maintaining the sense of culture, inclusion, and social support that our country is known for. The establishment acts as a blueprint for other states and union territories across India to follow. As our country continues to grow and develop, advocacy for such initiatives must go on to not only support, empower, and uplift individuals in the community but also boost mental health.

References:

• Mental Healthcare Act. (2017) https://www.indiacode.nic.in/bitstream/123456789/2249/1/A2017-10.pdf
• Murthy, R. S. (2017). National Mental Health Survey of India 2015-2016. Indian Journal of Psychiatry, 59(1), 21–26. https://doi.org/10.4103/psychiatry.IndianJPsychiatry_102_17
• Parul. (2024, December 29). Feels like home: Chandigarh’s residential facility for adults with mental illnesses and intellectual disabilities. The Indian Express. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/home-chandigarh-residential-adults-mental-illnesses-dis
• PTI. (2024, July 22). Economic survey 2023-24 calls for a paradigm shift to counter rising mental health issues among Indians. The Hindu. https://www.thehindu.com/business/budget/economic-survey-2023-24-calls-for-paradigm-shift-to-counter-rising-mental-health-issues-among-indians/article68431955.ece.

Authors: Prof. Moitrayee Das, Faculty of Psychology, FLAME University, & Muskan Shah, FLAME Alumna.