Challenges in deinstitutionalisation of the homeless mentally ill

Abstract

Homeless mentally ill forms the most vulnerable and the least researched group among the serious mentally ill patients. Recent trends at deinstituionalisation brings a unique challenge to the large number of patiens in India who are otherwise without any support systems. There is an urgent need for coordination between the government, NGOs and various stake holders to provide comprehensive care for these individuals, with appropriate residential options set up in the community, iif deinstitutionalsation efforts are to  be successful.