Pratibha Raghunath Namde, 38, is receiving treatment for psychosis. She recalls excelling in school until ninth grade, before unexplained frustration took over. Once fond of sewing, she now spends long hours staring into the distance, praying for relief, or attempting small chores. Even minor stress unsettles her — memory falters, appetite diminishes and sleep is disrupted.<br /><br />Her family has spent nearly a lakh on treatment, selling jewellery and exhausting savings, yet they remain caught between exhaustion and concern. They once turned to religious ceremonies and healers, performing rituals and sacrifices, but found no improvement.<br /><br />Community health workers now intervene with home visits and regular check-ins to prevent treatment lapses, though side effects from medication cause her pain. Moving to Aghai has brought some stability, allowing her to eat and sleep better.<br /><br />Her story reflects the heavy burden carried by both patients and caregivers, and the critical role of consistent support.<br /><br />Reporter: Sakshi Salil Chavan<br />Camera: Dinesh Parab and Gurujeet Devgan<br />Editor: Madiha Shakeel<br /><br />Follow us:<br />Website: https://www.outlookindia.com/<br />Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Outlookindia<br />Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outlookindia/<br />X: https://twitter.com/Outlookindia<br />Whatsapp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaNrF3v0AgWLA6OnJH0R<br />Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OutlookMagazine<br />Dailymotion: https://www.dailymotion.com/outlookindia<br /><br />#WorldMentalHealthDay #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealth #FreedomFromStigma #RightToHappiness #EverydayIPrayForLove #IHaveALotLeftInside #DignityForAll #OutlookMagazine
