Right to mental health from the theory of justice: An analysis from egalitarian liberalism

Mental and psychosocial illnesses are a major problem in these times, however, the right to mental health is not fully guaranteed. Even though from the theory of justice studies have been carried out to include health in them, the mental area has been little addressed in the analyzes. Today, as a result of the increase in depression associated with the pandemic and its consequences, this debate becomes important. Based on Rawls's principles of justice and Sen's and Nussbaum's capabilities approach, the need to guarantee the right to mental health is argued from the perspective of egalitarian liberalism. It is concluded that this is essential to really exercise freedom, convert primary goods into capabilities and live a dignified life that allows us to flourish and become what we potentially are.