Hyderabad, India – In a groundbreaking initiative, the Helping Hand Foundation (HHF) has launched a community-level mental health and dementia clinic to cater to the urban poor in Rajendranagar and Pahadi Shariff. The clinic, established in collaboration with Asha Charitable Trust and the Alzheimer’s and Related Disorders Society of India (ARDSI) Hyderabad Deccan Chapter, aims to address the critical mental health needs of economically weaker sections in the city.
Addressing a Gap in Mental Health Services
This is the first time that mental health and dementia screenings are being conducted at a primary care level in healthcare facilities run by HHF. The clinic’s team, led by Dr. Chandrasekhar K., a geriatric psychiatrist, offers a range of services, including preliminary neuropsychological assessments to evaluate cognitive impairment and detailed cognitive evaluations when necessary.
Comprehensive Care for Dementia Patients
The assessment tools used by the clinic have been validated for the Indian context by experts at NIMHANS. Following a clinical diagnosis, individuals with dementia will receive comprehensive care through a three-pronged approach, encompassing medication, functional rehabilitation, and cognitive stimulation therapy.
Bridging the Access Gap
The launch of this community-level mental health and dementia clinic is a significant step towards addressing the pressing need for accessible mental healthcare services for the urban poor in Hyderabad. By providing early detection, diagnosis, and treatment, the clinic aims to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by mental health conditions and dementia.
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