Bhubaneswar: Experts in psychiatry have stressed on educating the people about schizophrenia, a mental illness that affects around 24 million people across the world, and break down myths and misconceptions surrounding the condition through spread of awareness.
They were speaking at a programme, jointly organised by the Department of Psychiatry of Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital in Bhubaneswar and Odisha branch of Indian Psychiatric Society on the occasion of World Schizophrenia Day on Wednesday. This year’s theme is ‘Celebrating the Power of Community Kindness.”
They said at least one out of every 300 people get affected by schizophrenia which often causes severe disruption in personal and social life impacting the person’s ability to function independently.
“It is necessary to spread awareness about the symptoms, causes and available treatment for schizophrenia patients and reduce the stigma and discrimination that individuals encounter because of their illness,” said Prof Surjeet Sahoo, Head of the Department of Psychiatry in the hospital.
People suffering from such an illness need support, appropriate care and treatment which can help them lead fulfilling and happy lives, he added.
Prof Sanghamitra Mishra, Dean of IMS and SUM Hospital, said the family members and society at large have a huge role to play in helping people suffering from the illness to live a healthy and normal life.
Prof Pusparaj Samantasinhar, Medical Superintendent of the hospital, said it has been found that mostly highly educated people suffer from such mental conditions. It was necessary to dispel the misconceptions about this ailment, he said.
Prof Subhendu Narayan Mishra, Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, stressed the need for proper treatment of the patient.
Dr Jitendriya Biswal, Dr Rakesh Mohanty, Dr Snehangshu Dey, Dr Amiya Krushna Sahu, Dr Soumya Ranjan Dash, Dr Hiranmay Mohapatra from the Department of Psychiatry, Psychologist Manish Patnaik and post-graduate students also shared their views. Prof Lagnajit Dash, Associate Professor, proposed the vote of thanks.
