Mentally challenged man from Rajasthan reunited with family

When doctors began to treat Umesh*, who was found in a listless state, in May this year at Institute of Mental Health (IMH), there was little hope of tracking down his family. However, almost seven months after undergoing treatment, he is set to return to Alwar in Rajasthan.

Talking to DT Next, Dr Poorna Chandrika, Director In-Charge, IMH, said, “At the time of admission, he was not maintaining eye contact and was unable to provide his address or personal details. He was then constantly evaluated and managed by a team of psychiatrists and his personal information was collected, in spite of his low intelligence level.” She added that one of the post-graduate students at IMH found the details after conversing with him over a period of time. “He had sleep disturbances and kept muttering due to his health condition. However, after treatment he has shown considerable improvement. We addressed letters to the Block Development Officer and it was returned twice. Later, we located his correct address and contacted his family,” she added.

The family reached Chennai a couple of days ago and Umesh was overjoyed when he reunited with them. “He is set to return to his hometown after being produced in front of the Magistrate in Utharamerur.” As per the Mental Health Act, a person found wandering has to be produced before the Magistrate and even after treatment has to appear before the Judge before being sent back with family or relatives.

The IMH sees at least five for six similar cases every month. A couple of weeks back, three people with similar issues from Ramanathapuram were brought to the facility.