Kerala Renames Mental Hospitals as ‘Happiness and Wellness Centres’

 

Kerala is set to redefine mental healthcare by renaming its government-run mental hospitals in Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur and Kozhikode as Happiness and Wellness Centres. The move aims to create a more welcoming environment and shift the focus from only treating mental illness to promoting emotional well-being, prevention and early intervention.The decision follows serious concerns raised by the Kerala High Court over the condition of the three institutions. A division bench comprising Justices Devan Ramachandran and Basant Balaji had personally inspected the centres and criticised the government for failing to fully implement earlier directions to improve their facilities. During the inspection, the court described one institution as a “horror place” and questioned the secrecy surrounding mental healthcare facilities. Health Minister K. Muraleedharan said changing the names would be only the first step in a broader transformation. The government plans to upgrade infrastructure, improve the overall atmosphere and ensure adequate staffing at the centres. The proposed Happiness and Wellness Centres are expected to offer services beyond conventional psychiatric treatment. These may include counselling, mental health awareness programmes, stress management, lifestyle interventions and preventive care.

 

Such an approach could encourage people to seek professional support before their problems become severe. Mental illness continues to carry significant social stigma, and the term “mental hospital” itself can discourage people from seeking help. A more positive and inclusive identity could make mental healthcare less intimidating and improve public acceptance.