The Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS) Kashmir is experiencing a significant increase in schizophrenia patients, with an average of 20 individuals visiting the outpatient department (OPD) daily. According to official data, the majority of these cases are follow-ups, while at least one new diagnosis is reported each day, indicating a persistent rise in new cases of this chronic mental disorder. Besides that, as family structure in Kashmir is breaking and nuclear family structure is becoming the new norm, an increased number of people with severe mental illnesses (schizophrenia) are being abandoned and are forced to live on streets.
Schizophrenia, a severe brain disorder that affects a person’s thinking, feelings, and behaviour, is increasingly recognised as a critical mental health issue. Recent studies suggest that up to 90 percent of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia can lead productive lives at home if the disorder is detected early and treated appropriately. Mental disorders, including schizophrenia, are among the top causes of disease burden worldwide, particularly in the 15-44 age group.
Dr Arshad Hussain, Professor at IMHANS, told that 90 percent schizophrenia patients will be able to live in their homes productively if detected early and treated. “Some will require institutional care so we need institutions of care – hospitals, half way homes etc that will prevent homelessness. All institutional care with least restrictive options applie.
