Mental Health Action Trust (MHAT)

Mental Health Action Trust (MHAT) - is an NGO based out of Calicut, a growing city hub located in Northern Kerala in South India. We began providing free, comprehensive, and high-quality psychiatric and mental health care in late 2008 to one community and 15 patients. We now provide services to more than 40 communities and more than 3000 individuals and families in rural poverty. We currently operate across 5 districts of Kerala state – Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Palakkad, and Alappuzha. In recent times, the necessity of a public health approach to mental health has gained significance. Mental health research and advocacy suggests that bridging the gap in providing mental health-care, especially in low-income and developing countries, requires a greater role for society. In India, the shortage of mental health professionals and facilities has led to family members becoming caregivers for their loved ones suffering from mental illness. The burden of care and stigma attached to mental illness serves as a double setback for families already mired in poverty. Our mission is to help people with mental illness access psychiatric care and treatment without stigma, prejudice, and economic barriers. By building a model of mental healthcare centered within the community, we help affected individuals and families rebuild their lives, improve their ties with the community, and reintegrate into the larger society.