Do we need

Dr. Dharmender Nehra; Dr. Vivek Srivastava; Dr. Priti Singh; Dr. Rajiv Gupta; Dr. Ashish Kumar Malik

Volume : VIII, Issue : IX, September - 2019

Do we need

Dr. Dharmender Nehra, Dr. Vivek Srivastava, Dr. Priti Singh, Dr. Rajiv Gupta, Dr. Ashish Kumar Malik

Abstract :

Incorporation of the concept of advance directive under the Mental Health Care Act of 2017 has raised many eyeows. This concept, which is often being termed as the mimeo–graphic representation of the mental health acts of western countries, is supposed to be hard in finding relevancy in the Indian society. The question–mark is being put, not only regarding our preparedness over this issue but also over its appropriation in specific conditions. In times where we have not been to challenge satisfactorily the stigma and discrimination against the mentally ill, and are still trying to provide them with minimal facilities, the issue of Advanced Directive (ADs) would be difficult to be imbibed among the masses, whose knowledge and understanding of mental illness is still in destitute state. Furthermore, lack of clarity around ability to carry out or revoke the ADs and its related concepts like that of nominated representative, is going to make the task no easier. The idea of Advanced Directive has found it difficult to be consistent in the western societies, where it originally took birth and has been posed with many hindrances. As such, inadequate attention towards various associated logistical concerns may present to substantial hindrance in proper implementation of the ADs.