MENTAL HEALTH CARE : PERCEPTIONS AND EXPECTATIONS OF RURAL POPULATION IN UTTAR PRADESH - A BRIEF REPORT

National mental health programme envisaged integration of mental health care services into primary health care facilities. A house-to-house survey in 9 villages of a block situated near Lucknow city was conducted. A large number of villagers were aware of mental symptoms and indicated drugs as first choice of treatment. However, the majority preferred Government Hospitals and Private Doctors over Mental Hospitals and psychiatrists respectively. There was trend for utilization of available medical facilities but the community was largely unsatisfied with the available treatment facilities for mentally sick. The community suggests alternatives for the delivery of mental health care services based on their expectations. The results have been discussed vis-a-vis existing mental health care services.