Abstract

Mental health has emerged as a critical public health issue in India’s rapidly urbanizing environment. As cities grow in population and complexity urban residents face escalating levels of psychological stress social isolation and lifestyle-related disorders. Yet despite increasing awareness mental illness continues to be heavily stigmatized—discouraging help-seeking behavior and reinforcing social exclusion. This paper explores the intersections of mental health and social stigma in contemporary urban India. It examines how cultural perceptions class dynamics and institutional shortcomings contribute to the marginalization of those with mental health conditions. By analyzing emerging trends structural barriers and promising models of intervention the paper argues for a rights-based de-stigmatized and community-rooted approach to mental health in India’s urban spaces.