A New Leaf in the Rhythm of Inclusion

One of the basic laws of energy states that energy is neither created, nor destroyed. It flows, changing forms. In case of non- natural things such as institutions, this is often seen as a climactic process—An institution takes root under able leadership (Here, ‘leadership’ signifies a process, not a person); gradually but steadily begins to flourish; its strength testified by intermittent storms; and finds a taal to sway to—A taal, with a first and a last matraa but continuous in its aavartans. These aavartans begin to take form, and eventually exist independently of the doer and the benefactor, consuming both simultaneously. This is when it takes the form of a quiet yet firm revolution–a movement, if it please.

Destigmatisation of mental health issues is one such movement taking shape and getting passionate in its rhythm….changing forms, being creative, promising continuity. The three decade long journey of the Institute for Psychological Health has been exemplary of this process. Through its unique initiatives such as Manovikas, Tridal, various support groups, Saptasopan Neuropsychological Nurturance Centre (NPNC), IPH has expanded its form to include various factions of the community. In its newest initiative, the rhythm expands to cater to a niche population through the Tridal Hangout Cafe as well as a branch of the NPNC at its ever- so- welcoming Vasant Vihar space.

The Tridal Hangout Cafe (THC) is a temporary abode for persons who have suffered from mental illnesses, and are looking forward to stepping into a world of possibilities waiting to welcome them. The NPNC on the other hand, is a space that senior citizens can call their own, and nurture various skills and abilities on the way.

Underneath it all, THC and NPNC are a bigger story of inclusion. The adage 'the more, the merrier' holds true for the project. The more people THC reaches to, the more the circle of inclusion expands. Each benefactor shall carry this invisible circle around them, touching and including many more persons…a domino effect of destigmatisation.

THC promises to be a story that is a new aavartan of an ongoing taal; a story that cannot wait to be experienced by all.

Come, find your rhythm!

-Ketaki Joshi, Counselling Psychologist

IP