Asia is by far the largest continent in the world in terms of area with
population exceeding 3.5 billion and has dozens of cultures, religions,
languages and ethnic groups. As a result of its highly varied political
systems, Asia also spawns a wide variety of health care systems
including mental health care systems, often based on historical roots
and at times colonial heritages. The people who suffer from mental or
neurological disorders in the continent form a vulnerable section of
society and often face stigma, discrimination and marginalization in all
societies, and this increases the likelihood that their human rights
will be violated This book tackles the issue of mental health
legislation in South Asia. The first of its kind, it addresses an issue
that is necessary for protecting the rights of people with mental
disorders and serves as an essential text for reinforcing mental health
policy in South Asia. It is a timely addition to our global
understanding of mental health and how different regions address it.