World Schizophrenia Awareness Day (24 May) highlights the importance of mental health care. Last year, CMC’s Department of Psychiatry cared for over one lakh patients through our mental health team of Psychiatrists, Clinical Psychologists, Psychiatric Social Workers, Psychiatric Nurses, Occupational Therapists, Speech Therapists, and Special Educators.

Priya (name changed), a professor, has been living with Schizophrenia for over a decade. Recently, she was admitted for psychosocial rehabilitation. Our occupational therapy (OT) team reintroduced Priya to meaningful activities. She regained motivation to manage daily self-care and work independently.

Priya recounts, “What I observed is that therapists show patients that whatever they want to do, they can do it gradually. Once we start to taste the sense of accomplishment, we can break barriers.”

She reflects on her life before and after therapy, “During those years, when I was sick, I had no will to survive. I was drifting along without an anchor. Now, I have a purpose. I can handle a full workload and take up responsibilities for my family. I see that as my growth.”

Friend, together we aim to raise ₹5 lakh for essential therapy equipment for patients with mental health challenges. Your gift, big or small, can restore confidence, independence and hope to others like Priya.