- ....a table & 2 chairs....
- And a wish to reduce stigma about mental health
- And to spread the message of "Mental Health for All"
the times then.....
- Economic liberalization was being considered
- IT age was yet to begin
- Cable TV had just started creeping in.
- Mental Health an almost zero priority sector as stress levels considered 'manageable'.
- 'Mental Health' services were targeted toward management of acute psychiatric symptoms-illness
'mental health' (?) then....
- Professionals secretive about knowledge
- One-upmanship among professionals fostered passivity and dependence in the help seeker
- Helping institutions hopelessly mired in bureaucratic procedures and rigid hierarchies
- Professionals personally isolated, cold and out of touch with changes the patient is experiencing
- Physical setting sterile and threatening
- Treatment methods long and nurture passivity
thane: our city then....
Reputed' for its mental hospital
- reflected the old model of mental health
- believes in 'treating' illnesses.
- reflects the attitude of society then prevalent
'Mental Health' care facilities available
- Regional Govt. mental hospital (1880 beds)
- Municipal Corporation hospital
- Consultant Psychiatrists in private practice
- Consultant Psychologists in private practice
thane: what changed?
- Over the years become a booming metropolis
- Infrastructure has developed many fold
- Niche housing complexes serve as suburbs of the city
- Population of well educated, nuclear families increased
- Texture of community, the needs of people changed & increased
- Concerns about improving and enhancing mental health increased
- Problems encountered by people no longer limited to 'disorders'
- Day to day living becomes stressful, brings with it 'problems' or 'distress' in addition to disorders.
- Chinks started emerging in the armor of family and social systems
mental health: the changes required
The definition of 'Help' needed a change to incorporate
- A blend of professionalism & human touch
- A multidisciplinary team of motivated professionals
- Active participation of the society in the process
- 'Help' that not only reduces symptoms but enhances 'Health'
'....And this is how it all began for IPH in 1990 with
- 3 rooms, a few tables and chairs....
- A will & wish to change the outlook of mental health
- Consultant Psychiatrists in private practice
- Consultant Psychologists in private practice
IPH Today....
Reaches one of the most important milestones in its eventful journey...
 |
'By moving in to its own 'home'
- 3 floors of custom designed space meant to help promote our dream of 'Mental Health for ALL'
"Help is just a call away in times of emotional distress" - that is Maitra Helpline for you. Tele counseling or rather, an "Emotional First aide" helpline. Whatever your age, gender or problem/distress call 022 -25385447. This helpline is active between 9 AM & 9 PM working days. Sundays between 9 AM - 2PM