catalyst for Change: Rebuilding Lives beyond addiction

Extension Programme

REPORT ON EXTENSION ACTIVITY: CATALYST FOR CHANGE : REBUILDING LIVES BEYOND ADDICTION On 11-03-25, we MSc forensic science students along with our teachers, visited Shalom Mental Health Institute as part of an extension activity. The purpose of the visit was to gain an understanding of the various approaches used in mental health care, observe the treatment methodologies, interact with professionals, and engage with the inmates. This visit provided us with valuable insights into psychiatric treatments, psychological therapies, and the challenges faced by individuals with mental health disorders.We reached the institute at 9:00 AM, where we were welcomed by the staff. The introductory session was led by one of the staff, who provided an overview of the institute’s mission, the different approaches followed in treating mental illnesses, and the importance of a multidisciplinary framework in mental health care. The key aspects covered in this session were:The institute’s history, objectives, and facilities, the role of multidisciplinary teams which include psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and therapists, the different treatment strategies used, emphasizing a holistic approach to mental health recovery.Following the introductory session, Aparna Ma’am conducted a detailed session covering various aspects of psychiatric care. She explained the process of admitting patients into the institute, the evaluation methods used before confirming a diagnosis, legal and ethical considerations in admitting a patient, especially those with severe mental disorders or addiction issues. Then about delirium tremens -A severe form of alcohol withdrawal that can lead to confusion, tremors, hallucinations, and seizures and the medical interventions required to manage this condition. The institute follows a team-based approach involving psychiatry, psychology, and social work and the importance of considering biological, psychological, and social factors in mental health treatment.Aparna Ma’am elaborated on the various therapeutic approaches used at the institute, including:Pharmacotherapy: The use of medications such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers.Psychotherapy: Counseling sessions to help patients cope with their conditions.Family Therapy: Educating and involving family members in the recovery process.Group Therapy: Patients sharing experiences and supporting each other.Music Therapy: Using music as a tool to improve mental well-being.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A structured therapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns.The session also covered various mental health disorders, including: Psychosis: Symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. Personality Disorders: Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD), etc. also Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Withdrawal Symptoms experienced by individuals recovering from substance abuse. She also explained about Mental Status Examination (MSE) and Diagnostic Test.The different tests conducted to assess a patient’s mental health and How mental health professionals differentiate between genuine psychiatric conditions and patients mimicking symptoms.After the session, we were guided by Gokul Sir (MHP Tester) to visit the inmates. He explained the different categories of patients and the specialized rooms assigned to them. The blocks were named Sopanam, Oosis, Gihan, etc. Each block housed individuals with different psychiatric conditions. The rooms were designed based on the severity of the patient’s condition and their treatment requirements. The institute maintained a structured environment to ensure the safety and well-being of all patients.At 11:00 AM, we had an interactive session with Dr. Babu, who shared his expertise and experiences in mental health and addiction treatment. Key points from the discussion include : Alcohol as the most widely abused substance and its effects on mental health and .MDMA (Ecstasy): Its rising use and the reasons behind its popularity among drug users.Common Mental Health Disorders that covered include :Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): Characterized by emotional instability, impulsivity, and intense interpersonal relationships.Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD): Marked by disregard for others’ rights, lack of empathy, and manipulative behavior.Episodic Drinking: The dangers of binge drinking and its long-term impact on mental health.Treatment Procedures for addiction and psychiatric disorders, including detoxification, therapy, and rehabilitation.The visit ended with an interactive session with the inmates, where we engaged in conversations and conducted activities with them. We spent time listening to their experiences, allowing them to share their thoughts and emotions. The session helped us understand the impact of therapy on their recovery process. It was a mutually enriching experience, fostering empathy and awareness about mental health challenges. The visit concluded at 12:00 PM, providing us with a deeper understanding of mental health care, rehabilitation, and addiction treatment. We learned about the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and how different therapies contribute to patient recovery. The visit also helped us appreciate the challenges faced by individuals with mental illnesses and the role of mental health professionals in their rehabilitation. This visit was an eye-opening experience, reinforcing the importance of awareness, support, and proper treatment in the field of mental health.