THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government has decided to extend Ashwash clinics to more family health centres as part of its initiative to screen people for common mental ailments. Ashwash Clinics had been set up in 170 family health centres. Since the government has decided to increase the number of FHCs to 500, the plan is to extend the facility to all these centres in a phased manner. Many people screened at these centres were detected with minor and minor mental ailments.
FHCs are using PH Q 9 Questionnaire which objectifies and assesses the degree of depression severity. Mental health experts say that such intervention in society is required to improve mental health and also help people cope with depression and psychological stress. There have been frequent incidents of family suicides because of social and financial stress which also reflects the disturbing trend in society. With one in eight people in the state’s population having mental ailment requiring psychiatric intervention, state mental health authority believes a massive screening exercise at the grassroots level was needed for early detection of common mental problems.
The PH Q 9 questionnaire used at the FHCs objectifies and assesses degree of depression severity. A team of visits these centres to provide expert care. Mild depression symptoms like loss of appetite, lack of energy and sleeplessness are examined by general physicians at these centres and then if required, are referred to experts. The number of people seeking treatment for depression is increasing by the day. Ashwash intiative is aimed at encouraging people to seek medical support at an early stage. It helps women to seek treatment for conditions like depression besides counselling.
