MENTAL health, often overlooked, is a serious public health concern in Bangladesh. Inadequate access to mental health care in the country, limited awareness and deep-rooted stigma hinder effective management and treatment. The Covid pandemic had a profound impact on mental health. Like many post-pandemic countries, mental health problems have increased in Bangladesh.
Then we can see that health disorders can have devastating consequences that affect a person鈥檚 quality of life, relationships and productivity, resulting in depression and anxiety. These disorders can lead to job loss, social isolation and even suicide. Still, mental health challenges in Bangladesh remain unaddressed due to a lack of awareness and a lack of mental health professionals.
A large number of the people in the country have some mental health problems, but still, there is not enough skilled manpower to treat them, and there is an infrastructure crisis again. The condition of the private healthcare facilities is more deplorable; they don鈥檛 comply with international or national guidelines, and beating is one of their treatment methods.
Despite the challenges, Bangladesh has made progress in addressing mental health issues. The Mental Health Act of 2018 has provided a legal framework for mental healthcare services. This Act aims to address mental health issues and provide protection to people who have mental illness. It also promotes the well-being of individuals with mental health conditions. It has been ensuring the establishment of mental health facilities, including psychiatric hospitals, community-based mental health services and rehabilitation centres.
The Act protects the rights of people with mental disorders, such as the right to treatment, the right to privacy and the right to equal participation in society. However, there is a provision for punishment if a person does not act according to this Act because no person can do illegal activities and abuse power.
Section 10 of the Act says that if a person runs an unlicensed mental hospital, a fine not exceeding Tk 500,000 and for repetition not exceeding Tk 2 million shall be imposed. Additionally, if he is professionally engaged in mental health services in an unlicensed mental hospital, then he will be fined not more than Tk 100,000.
As per Section 23 of the Act, if any person furnishes a false certificate of mental illness, he shall be punished with a fine not exceeding Tk 300,000 or with rigorous imprisonment for one year or with both. Then, if the guardian or manager neglects the duty of treatment or management of the mentally ill person or the list of property or does not implement any order of the court, he shall be punished with a fine not exceeding Tk 500,000 or with rigorous imprisonment for three years or with both.
Additionally, if any person contravenes or abets the contravention of any other provision of this Act or abetment or obstructs any government order, he shall be punished with a fine not exceeding Tk 100,000 or with imprisonment for six months or with both.
On the other hand, according to Section 29 of the Act, the government may formulate necessary rules to fulfil the purpose of this Act. However, the relevant rules have not been formulated for the implementation of this Act, resulting in a lack of transparency and accountability. No matter how good a law is, if it does not have detailed instructions for its implementation, it creates problems. The rules clarify various aspects of the law and make implementation easier.听
Unfortunately, according to the report of the National Institute of Mental Health, about 94.5 per cent of people who have mental illness are deprived of medical care. One of the most significant barriers to accessing mental health care in Bangladesh is the pervasive stigma associated with mental illness. Many people with mental health problems are reluctant to seek help for fear of being judged, of discrimination, and of social exclusion. This stigma perpetuates a culture of silence and makes it difficult for them to get the support they need.
Mental illness is still considered a shameful thing in our society, and it is more common in rural areas. Because of this prejudice, people want to hide their mental problems and hesitate to seek treatment. However, public awareness, seminars and campaigns can be crucial in changing societal attitudes towards mental health. By educating people about mental health, these initiatives can help eliminate prejudices and create a more supportive environment for individuals with mental health issues. The Mental Health Act 2018 provides a legal framework for these initiatives, and more importance should be given to rural areas.
The government should allocate more resources to expand mental health services, including establishing more mental health facilities, training adequate mental health professionals and integrating mental health services into primary care. The Mental Health Act 2018 is a good initiative, but to reap its benefits, it is necessary to create awareness among the common people. The government, private organisations and various NGOs should work together to raise awareness about mental health, provide support to individuals with mental health issues, and advocate for better mental health services. This collaboration can significantly improve the mental health landscape in Bangladesh.
Lastly, the mental health crisis in Bangladesh is a complex issue that requires urgent attention. Thus, by building a culture of understanding and acceptance, Bangladesh can make significant progress in meeting the mental health needs of its citizens. It is time to break the silence around mental health and create a society where individuals can seek help without fear of discrimination.
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Atiqur Rahaman studies law and human rights at University of Asia Pacific.
