The interface between mental health and human rights: past, present and future

Martin, Fiona, Bansal, Neha, Rana, Shambhavi Singh, MacManus, Deirdre, Forrester, Andrew ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2510-1249 and Sen, Piyal 2026. The interface between mental health and human rights: past, present and future. BJPsych Advances 10.1192/bja.2026.10210

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Abstract

The relationship between mental health and human rights is complex and bidirectional: human rights abuses can have a significant adverse effect on mental health, and those with mental disorders are vulnerable to violations of their human rights. This article begins with an overview of human rights instruments most relevant to psychiatric practice, including the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). It discusses some globally occurring human rights abuses and the complex relationship between human rights and mental health. It gives an update on developments in human rights considerations in psychiatric practice over the past decade, and examines emerging challenges that continue to shape the intersection between mental health and human rights. Drawing on a British Medical Association article that highlighted the threats posed to health and human rights by neoliberalism and inequality, forced migration, climate change, new technology and violent conflict, the article explores the impact of these issues on mental health, as well as the challenges related to mental health legislation. It concludes with practical considerations for psychiatrists to safeguard and promote human rights.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Published Online
Status:	In Press
Schools:	Schools > Medicine
Additional Information:	RRS policy applied
Publisher:	Royal College of Psychiatrists
ISSN:	2056-4678
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	15 June 2026
Date of Acceptance:	24 March 2026
Last Modified:	15 Jun 2026 12:05
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/187494

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