Decision was taken after positive outcomes during trials at Ratnagiri mental hospital
For quick recovery of chronic mental health patients, the state government has decided to allot accommodation for their close relatives in the hospital premises. The experiment, which was started in Ratnagiri mental hospital, has shown positive outcomes and therefore the government is all set to implement it in Nagpur, Pune and Thane mental health hospitals.
A source in directorate of health services said that this was implemented in Ratnagiri around 7-8 months ago. "It is showing good result with improved recovery rate. We are able to send the patients home early," said the official.
According to DHS officials, the model will be followed in Nagpur, Pune and Thane mental hospitals where 5-10 beds will be reserved for families of patients undergoing treatment for severe depression and addictions. "The rooms will be self sufficient with provision of bathroom and toilet," said the officer.
He further added that for mentally ill patient, the feeling of being unwanted is very high. It is known that involving family members in treatment of mentally ill patients has greater impact. It provides the much needed psychological support from the family members and helps in early rehabilitation," said the officer.
Currently, Nagpur mental hospital has 940 beds, Pune has 2,540 beds, Ratnagiri has 365 beds and the one in Thane has 1,850 beds.
Dr Harish Shetty, psychiatrist, Dr LH Hiranandani hospital calls it a revolutionary step by the government. "The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in Bangalore has this. It is a welcome step by the government.
Involving family from day one of the treatment of mentally ill patient helps in better compliance rate. The chances of them breaking away from the course is less and support groups form. This will also help break many myths involved in mental health treatment procedures."
Dr Heena Merchant, general secretary of the Bombay Psychiatric Society (BPS), said: "I think this is a good initiative to have family members stay in with their patients during their treatment. Since family members are the ones who are primarily involved in providing care to their patients having them around is crucial for patients recovery. Besides monitoring the medications, diet & activities of their patients they can also learn how to deal with their patients."
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