Marriage and rehabilitation of persons with severe mental illness

Psychiatric illness is associated with disability, which is responsible for the major part of the global burden of disease. Despite the fact that all persons with mental disorder (s) do not qualify for marriage, as per the legislations on marriage, recent court judgments have disallowed nullity/ divorce on the ground of mental illness (MI)/ schizophrenia. It may noted that the right to marriage and to have a family is a universal human right and most persons with mental disorders do get married. In India, the institution of marriage is strong. Rehabilitation via marriage is feasible and desirable. It meets all the rehabilitation needs of people with severe mental disorders, provides a dignified life with a family and children in a natural setting, is economical, and associated with least stigma. It decreases the burden on the State for providing formal rehabilitation services.