Mental health Vulnerability in different groups of populations during COVID-19: perspectives from India

Background: The evolving COVID-19 pandemic has made the investigation of mental health vulnerability an integral concept. During this unusual crisis, certain populations are more at risk for being victims of abuse and violence, especially at homes, intensifying during the lockdown. Recognition of mental health challenges on an individual, families, communities, and the economy is the need of the hour. Objective: This study focuses on the identification of mental health vulnerabilities across life span of different groups of populations in India. Design: A theoretical framework is presented which lays down the applicable literature in the discourse. The current article has used qualitative paradigm: content analysis of documents, reports and newspaper articles thereby leading to critical analysis and identification of the main factors. Results: This article looks at the distinctions in the conceptualization of vulnerability in different groups of populations in the Indian society which have unmasked mental health inequalities due to COVID-19.  This article highlights the key lockdown specific psychological challenges faced by children and adolescents, young adults, elderly, migrant workers and farmers that are quintessentially the most vulnerable populations in India. Conclusion: The looming mental health crisis in the country have reinstated the call for the implementation of ‘mental health care to all’ especially to the worst affected. The post COVID-19 scenario will multiply anxiety, depression, suicide and other psychological effects that will put novel challenges for mental health services in the community. The article concludes by sharing some information on some cultural variants that can better serve community mental health. It emphasizes the need for psychological crisis intervention and rights-based mental health approach in India.