Hospitals to host online events for spreading word

PRAYAGRAJ: Posting videos spreading awareness about schizophrenia and the need to break the taboo associated with the disease will be among the several activities city hospitals have planned for World Schizophrenia Day, which will observed on Sunday.
The mental health cell of Motilal Nehru Divisional Hospital also will also organise events online on the day. “Usually several events are organised on this day every year with the purpose of spreading awareness about schizophrenia, however, the ongoing lockdown and the Covid-19 pandemic necessitate a different approach.Hence, we would be making people aware about the disease in a different way,” said Dr Ishanya Raj, a clinical psychologist at MLN Divisional Hospital.
“The theme for this year’s events is ‘Stay Connected’. The pandemic has taught us that it is important to stay connected and reach out for support if you are schizophrenic. We would be wearing purple clothes, clicking group photos with our family members wearing purple clothes or with a purple background. We would then share these photos on social media to raise awareness,” she said.
“Those who are diagnosed with schizophrenia must get full support from their family, friends and the society. Schizophrenia can be a remitting relapse illness, but an early diagnosis improves chances of success of treatment and medication.”
“Apart from sharing information on social media about the of nature symptoms, causes and treatment of schizophrenia, we would also shoot a a video on theme ‘I too can break the stigma’ and would be sharing it on social media,” said Dr Jayanath BP, consultant psychiatrist at Kaushambi district hospital.