The flood-battered families in North Paravur will get a helping hand to mitigate the trauma, as the Ernakulam Psychiatric Society has come up with a massive ‘mental health adoption programme’ spanning over a period of one-and-a-half years in one of the worst-hit regions in the district.
The move comes in the wake of the inference that the flood-ravaged communities may develop anxiety and hopelessness as they return homes from relief camps to re-build their lives. “Adoption of Paravur will include an epidemiological study on various mental health problems caused by the floods, besides focusing on clinical intervention measures,” said Prateesh P.J, secretary, Ernakulam Psychiatric Society.
Terming the initiative a landmark research approach, Dr. Prateesh said full-time psychiatric social workers and research assistants would be appointed, and that the programme would be led by prominent psychiatrists affiliated to the society. “We have earmarked ₹10 lakh for the project,” he added.
According to Dr. Prateesh, all affected people can have free consultations. Besides, there will be cost-free interventions by psychiatrists. The treatment protocol and other details will be kept confidential, he said.
The society has launched a 24/7 helpline to support the flood-hit families overcome anxiety, despair, and post-traumatic stress disorder. People can call 9946000458, and the services of a team of at least 25 psychiatrists will be available round-the-clock. “The trauma may aggravate once the victims are back home from relief camps. Now, they [flood victims] are in an artificial environment where support is pouring in from various quarters. But it will stop once they return home. A damaged mixie, a fan, or any valuables at home may trigger depression and anxiety,” reminded Dr. Prateesh.
The Ernakulam Psychiatric Society is also assisting various units of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) as part of holding various camps, educational programmes, and counselling sessions for the flood-affected people.
The services of psychiatrists will be available in the IMA regions including Kochi, Kothamangalam, Muvattupuzha, Paravur, Ernakulam central zone, Edappally, Kochi West, Perumbavoor, and Kolenchery.