BUILDING BRIDGES: COMMUNITY-BASED APPROACHES TO MENTAL HEALTH AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING

Abstract

Mental health is no longer viewed merely as the absence of illness but as a dynamic state of psychological, social, and emotional well-being embedded within community life. This chapter examines the role of community-based approaches in strengthening mental health and psychological well-being, with particular attention to the Indian context. Drawing upon secondary research and existing literature, the chapter discusses the conceptual evolution of community mental health, the social determinants that shape psychological well-being, and the effectiveness of grassroots and participatory intervention models. It further explores persistent challenges such as stigma, resource scarcity, and rural-urban disparities in service access. The chapter concludes by proposing an integrated framework combining community participation, task-shifting strategies, and institutional collaboration to promote sustainable psychological well-being. The discussion contributes to policy and practice by underscoring community ownership as central to effective, equitable, and culturally responsive mental health care.