Caregiving for mental health: How a sister’s 30-year fight helped a brother battle schizophrenia, inspired a film
The Indian Express • • health
Key Points:
- Ila took on the full responsibility of caring for her brother Tarun, who has schizophrenia, from 1996 onward, providing medical, emotional, and social support while protecting him from stigma.
- Ila encouraged Tarun to engage in activities like painting, reading, and social interaction, which helped ground him in reality and improve his quality of life.
- She became part of a group therapy team at Sassoon Hospital, working with psychiatrist Dr. Neha Pandey and coordinating with Dr. Nishikant Thorat to manage Tarun’s treatment, including reducing his psychiatric medication to minimal doses.
- Ila emphasizes the importance of patience, understanding non-verbal cues, and not directly challenging delusions, focusing instead on creating a safe space