I am a Software Engineer from TN. I have severe Social Anxiety disorder. I attended a few therapy sessions before, and none helped. So, I started taking prescribed meds (most of which are narcotics, hypnotics, or both). I got help from the organisation I'm working with for time adjustment, reimbursements, etc. My company has been helpful in this aspect.
The problem began when WFH started, and I had to live with my family. I'm unmarried. So, my parents (and sometimes my grandma pays a visit) are there. As for my family, only feeling sick, having body aches, etc. can be classified as "unhealthy". Hence, when I started working, I didn't get enough rest, food or anything I needed. My entire schedule changed when I came in to start working from my house. I couldn't even take my meds on time, which worsened my condition (so worse that I had to be named "disabled" under my company's policies).
There are a few laws in this country (like THE MENTAL HEALTHCARE ACT, 2017), but they don't list any penalties/punishments for individuals who oppress mentally unhealthy people. It does give the right to privacy, etc. But, when those provisions are broken, there's no one we can turn to (there's a number for protection for children, women, etc., but none for mental health until it reaches a point of suicide [suicide helpline]). And in my case, the oppressors are my family members.
I'm an educated person, and I make ~30k a month. I'm not living in a small house with people crowded in and around my house. Even then, I'm facing so many problems, that are worsening my condition. These make me think of those less privileged than me - poor people, those earning daily wages, people living in cottages, slums, etc. Their lives are, I'm sure, much worse. This is one of the reasons many people turn to illegal drugs, alcohol abuse, etc.
So, please sign this petition and share as much as you can. Let's make this reach the highest points, starting from state governments to WHO. Let's make them realise to make these laws stronger and give more provisions to people with issues that are not much understood (like mine). Let's make everyone understand that people with mental health issues require some dignity and help, much more than presently available.