EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES THROUGH YOGA: ACHIEVING NATIONAL MENTAL HEALTH POLICY OBJECTIVES

Abstract

Mental health disorders, affecting one in eight individuals globally, pose a significant public health challenge. In India, the burden of mental illness is rising, with limited accessibility to mental health services and deep-rooted stigma further exacerbating the issue. The National Mental Health Policy (NMHP) 2014 aims to improve mental well-being through a holistic, inclusive, and accessible framework. Yoga, a well-established mind-body intervention, has demonstrated efficacy in managing anxiety, depression, and stress through neurobiological and psychological mechanisms. Integrating yoga into India’s primary healthcare system through initiatives such as the National AYUSH Mission (NAM) and Ayushman Arogya Mandirs aligns with the NMHP objectives by enhancing mental health accessibility, reducing healthcare costs, and promoting community-based care. Strengthening healthcare provider training, improving public awareness, and addressing implementation challenges can maximize yoga’s potential as a complementary mental health intervention. Further research is required to optimize yoga’s integration into public health strategies and evaluate its long-term impact on mental well-being.