Family and community key to Schizophrenia recovery, say experts
Experts at the schizophrenia awareness programme organised by the Kozhikode-based Chetana Centre for Neuropsychiatric Rehabilitation, in observance of World Schizophrenia Day on Saturday (May 24), stressed the importance of family and community in recovery, especially in the context of rising drug abuse and digital media addiction among youth.
The event was conducted in collaboration with several organisations, including Thanal Suicide Prevention Centre, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Committee for Emotional Well-being and Suicide Prevention, the Indian Psychiatric Society (Kerala State Branch), the Composite Regional Centre for Persons with Disabilities, and the Calicut Psychiatry Guild.
Focussing on the causes of schizophrenia, Dr. Arun Gopalakrishnan, consultant psychiatrist at Isha Mind Care, pointed out the role of epigenetics and chemical imbalances in the brain and the fluctuations in the levels of serotonin and dopamine. 'The onset of the disorder is usually between the ages of 15 and 55, but can occur earlier or later,' Dr. Gopalakrishnan said.
He added that the symptoms of schizophrenia included withdrawal tendencies, hallucinations, random disorganised speech and illusions. Early detection and treatment would help to cure the disease completely, highlighting that 20-30% of patients fully recover, Dr. Gopalakrishnan said.
Dr. P. N. Suresh Kumar, convener of the Indian Medical Association's Committee for Emotional Wellbeing and Suicide Prevention, said that hospital-centred, institution-based, community-based, and non-residential rehabilitation, which provided opportunities to schizophrenia patients based on their aptitude and ability, helped in their recovery.
Dr. Roshan Bijili, director of the Composite Regional Centre for Persons With Disabilities, emphasised the need to treat schizophrenia like any other medical condition.
M.K. Raghavan, MP, inaugurated the programme. Dr. A.K. Abdul Khader, vice chairman of the Thanal Foundation Trust, presided over the session.
K.C. Hariharan, administrator, Chetana; DR. V. Rajmohan V., editor of Kerala Journal of Psychiatry; Dr. Susheel K., president of Calicut Psychiatry Guild; and Dr. Rajagopalan Puthusserri, administrator, Thanal Suicide Prevention Centre, took part in the event.
The programme also featured the staging of 'Aakashakazhchakal', written by M. V. Suresh Babu and directed by Vijayan Kanthoor. The play staged by Sradha, Kozhikode, portrays the experiences of a person living with schizophrenia, including the person's hallucinations of being attacked, evoking empathy in the audience and raising awareness.
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