Kerala examines renaming mental health centres to reduce stigma

The Kerala High Court has directed the state government to examine whether renaming mental health centres could help reduce the social stigma associated with mental illness. A Division Bench noted that while these institutions operate under the Mental Health Care Act, the current naming convention differs from hospitals treating physical ailments, which do not carry similar labels. The court suggested that the government consider alternative names, such as ‘Institutes of Behavioural Management’, to avoid stigmatization.

Concurrently, the Kerala State Mental Health Authority (KSMHA) is developing new regulations to establish minimum standards for various mental health facilities, including standalone centres, psychiatry units in medical colleges and private hospitals, and rehabilitation centres. These regulations, based on the Mental Healthcare Act of 2017, aim to shift the focus from a purely treatment-oriented approach to one that prioritizes patient rights, safety, and comfort.

The proposed framework includes provisions for advance directives, allowing adults to state treatment preferences, and emphasizes the right to community living. Additionally, the regulations seek to prevent wrongful admissions and ensure that health insurers provide coverage for mental illness on the same basis as physical illness.