“My mother used to feel depressed all the time, she overslept during the day, unable to do simple day-to-day activities. Me (14) and my older sister (16) used to cook for her. This went on for one whole year. As young children, we were extremely worried about her. Seeing your mother go through such a turmoil is extremely difficult,” recalls Vinay, a 28-year-old working professional.
Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that affects the brain making it difficult to focus on simple tasks. Patients also have other symptoms like depression, sleep deprivation, low motivation, anti-social behaviour, disorganised speech and delusions. In extreme cases, patients suffer from hallucinations and even have suicidal tendencies.
About 0.3-0.7 per cent of people are affected by schizophrenia during their lifetimes. And the pain extends to the family and the closed ones like what Vinay experienced.
On the occasion of the World Schizophrenia Day, Sakal Times spoke to Amrit Kumar Bakhshy, the President of Schizophrenia Awareness Association (SAA), a Pune-based NGO about the disorder and challenges faced by the patients. Bakhshy expressed the need for awareness about this disorder and emphasised on community treatment for the same.
“In our society, there is a social stigma attached to any mental illness, and also there is insensitivity towards such patients. People do not include those with mental illness in their groups or social circle, which leads to ostracisation. Things have changed since the past decades. Now various awareness workshops, counselling methods, and diagnosis treatments are available,” said Bakhshy.
Many patients start isolating themselves, affecting their social life and self-esteem.
The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016
Every person with mental illness shall have a right to live with dignity, and there shall be no discrimination on any basis including gender, sex, sexual orientation, religion, culture, caste, social or political beliefs, class, or disability.
Challenges in Education and Career
When asked about the situation of jobs and career of mentally ill patients, Bakhshy said that a senior government official was asked to take leave from work when she suffered from depression. Another person from another prominent government organisation was removed when they found about his mental illness. Many students are forced to drop out of colleges, and others don’t get admissions due to their conditions.
“There is a social stigma, but obviously, things are getting better now after the 2016 Act. As one per cent reservation has been given for jobs and educational institutions for mentally ill patients,” he added.
Discrimination & Exclusivity
It’s not uncommon that verbal taunts like crazy, mental, and mad are used to shame people who have any mental illness. Emphasising on an inclusive environment, Mr Bakhshy said, “People need to be sensitive to other people. It is difficult for patients to work in any private company as the corporate job structure hampers the recovery of patients and at times, makes the situation worse by adding stress.
“A workplace with sensitised employers is what we need. We encourage those who have schizophrenia to pursue self-employment or supportive employment, for example, working at relatives’ workplaces, who would understand you better than your family.”
Today, due to the nationwide lockdown, a lot of patients are stuck indoors and unable to participate in productive activities. It is necessary to keep the mind fresh and engaged, check out these online courses that will help you be more productive at home;
Art for Beginners: Unleash your inner artist with this art course for beginners.
Yoga for Wellness: Relax your body and mind with this self-paced yoga course.
Most importantly take care of your physical and mental health. Stay happy and healthy.
