Punjab launches Mental Health Policy on World Mental Health Day to ensure accessible, stigma-free care, with a focus on women and crisis support.
CHANDIGARH : Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh unveiled the groundbreaking “Punjab State Mental Health Policy” on Friday to commemorate World Mental Health Day, in a groundbreaking effort to improve the psychological well-being of its citizens, as envisioned by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. The objective of this transformative initiative was to guarantee that all individuals in Punjab have access to high-quality mental health care and to promote mental well-being.
Dr. Balbir Singh stated that Punjab is taking a historic step on World Mental Health Day to ensure that mental well-being is truly the right of all individuals. He also emphasized that the Punjab State Mental Health Policy, in conjunction with the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, is evidence of the Punjab government’s dedication to the physical, mental, and social well-being of all individuals in Punjab.
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The Health Minister, who was accompanied by Principal Secretary Health Kumar Rahul, emphasized that the pervasive stigma in our society frequently compels individuals to endure silence, thereby facilitating the deterioration of conditions. He stated that in order to address this issue, we are ensuring that mental health services are integrated into our primary healthcare framework, thereby guaranteeing that assistance is accessible from the moment of contact.
Dr. Balbir Singh also emphasized the policy’s commitment to vulnerable groups, with a particular emphasis on the mental health of women. “We acknowledge that women frequently experience a disproportionate amount of societal and domestic pressures, which can have a significant impact on their psychological well-being.” As a result, our policy requires a gender-sensitive approach, which guarantees that women have access to mental health services that are safe, confidential, and empathetic for women. He stated that the mental soundness of women is not only a health imperative, but also a fundamental component of the construction of a society that is both equitable and resilient.
In reference to this year’s theme, “Access to Service: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” the Minister emphasized that “Our state has resilience, having confronted severe emergencies like Operation Sindoor and the recent devastating floods.” Robust mental health support is not merely a service, but an absolute necessity, as these catastrophes inflict profound psychological scars through the tragic loss of life and livelihood. He stated that this policy is specifically intended to strengthen the state’s response to crisis-induced trauma.
Dr. Balbir Singh stated that the State Mental Health Policy is founded on the principles of evidence-based, integrated care, justice, and equity. By expanding the number of trained mental health professionals in the state, the policy will increase the utilization of mental health services. He also stated that the Policy is designed to decrease the risk of suicide and to encourage the incorporation of individuals with mental health conditions.