Bhubaneswar, May 27: Schizophrenia is a treatable psychiatric condition which can be effectively tackled through early identification, proper treatment, family involvement and social support, speakers said at an awareness and advocacy program organised at the Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital, Campus-2, Phulnakhara, on the occasion of World Schizophrenia Day on Monday.
Organised by the hospital’s Department of Psychiatry, the program aimed at promoting understanding of schizophrenia, reducing stigma surrounding the mental illness and encouraging early diagnosis and treatment.
The event witnessed active participation from faculty members, psychologists, psychiatric social workers, nursing staff, caregivers and hospital personnel. The program was organised around the global awareness theme—‘Listen, Learn and Support’—emphasizing compassion, acceptance and scientific understanding of severe mental illnesses.
The sessions covered various important aspects including early warning signs and symptoms, disease progression, available treatment modalities, medication adherence, myths and misconceptions surrounding schizophrenia, psychological assessment techniques, counseling approaches, psychosocial rehabilitation and long-term management strategies.
The program was conducted with the guidance of Prof. (Dr.) Rajesh Kumar Lenka, Medical Superintendent, Prof. (Dr.) Tapasi Pati, Additional Medical Superintendent, and Dr. Bhabani Shankar Shit, Head of Department of Psychiatry.
The sessions were addressed by Dr. Lagnajit Dash, Dr. Swayam Prava Baral and Dr. Gyanendra Raghuvanshi, all Associate Professors, who highlighted the growing importance of mental health awareness in society and stressed the need for timely psychiatric intervention, family support, rehabilitation and community participation in the recovery process.
Informative sessions focusing on the illness were conducted by Dr. Abhishek Samal, Dr. Kirti Anurag, Dr. Sujata Sahoo, Dr. Sucharita Mishra, Dr. Shumaila Asif, all Assistant Professors, Dr. Satish Ranjan, Senior Resident, Liza Daniel, Clinical Psychologist and Subhasini Mohanty, Psychiatric Social Worker.
An interactive discussion was also conducted where caregivers and patient attendants shared their personal experiences, challenges and recovery journeys. Their testimonies highlighted the importance of empathy, awareness and continuous support in mental healthcare. The program concluded with a collective pledge to continue working towards mental health advocacy, reducing stigma and creating a more supportive and inclusive society for individuals living with mental illness.
Dr. Sai Prasad Ray, Assistant Professor, proposed the vote of thanks.
