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Review Papers | Social Work | Volume 15 Issue 3, March 2026 | Pages: 586 - 588 | India
Mental Health in Women and Child Welfare in India: Issues, Shortcomings, and Prospects
Abstract: Mental health is an essential element of overall wellness, yet it is frequently neglected in the frameworks addressing women and child welfare, particularly in developing nations like India. Although there have been improvements in welfare policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing maternal and child health, education, and protection, mental health concerns often remain on the periphery. Women and children face distinct psychosocial challenges, including poverty, domestic violence, gender inequality, child labour, abuse, and social exclusion, all of which increase their susceptibility to mental health disorders. This review explores the systemic neglect of mental health in women and child welfare programs, highlights socio-cultural and structural barriers, and identifies shortcomings in policy. Moreover, it examines the consequences of ignoring mental health issues and suggests integrated, community-oriented, and rights-based approaches to better incorporate mental health into welfare initiatives. The paper concludes by emphasizing the critical need to integrate mental health considerations into policies related to women and child welfare.
Keywords: Mental Health, Women and Child Welfare, India, Social Policy, Gender and Mental Health, Child Mental Health, Welfare Policy
How to Cite?: Manjusha Sarang, "Mental Health in Women and Child Welfare in India: Issues, Shortcomings, and Prospects", Volume 15 Issue 3, March 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 586-588, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26307233918, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26307233918