Event Title:
Educational Visit to Gwalior Mansik Arogyashala
Date of Visit:
8/04/2025
Organized by:
AIBAS
FACULTY COORDINATORS
Dr. Atul verma
Dr. Devanshi Khemaria
Venue:
Gwalior Mansik Arogyashala, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
Introduction:
The visit to Gwalior Mansik Arogyashala, one of India's oldest and largest mental health institutions, was organized to provide students with practical exposure to mental health services, rehabilitation practices, and psychiatric care. This event aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world clinical practice.
Objectives of the Visit:
- To understand the history and significance of Gwalior Mansik Arogyashala.
- To observe the treatment and rehabilitation facilities provided to patients.
- To learn about different psychiatric disorders and their management.
- To interact with mental health professionals and understand their roles.
Summary of Activities:
- Orientation Session:
The visit began with an orientation session led by a senior psychiatrist who gave an overview of the hospital's history, facilities, patient demographics, and the various treatment approaches used.
- Hospital Tour:
Students were taken on a guided tour of various departments including:
- Outpatient Department (OPD)
- Inpatient wards (for males, females, and specialized wards)
- Occupational therapy and rehabilitation units
- Counseling and psychotherapy rooms
- Pharmacy and medical records departments
- Interactive Session:
Participants had an opportunity to interact with psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, psychiatric social workers, and nursing staff. Professionals shared case studies and explained treatment modalities like pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, occupational therapy, and group therapy.
- Observations:
Students observed the structure of patient care, the importance of multidisciplinary teamwork, and the critical role of community outreach and rehabilitation programs in psychiatric care.
Key Learnings:
- Real-world insights into psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression, and substance abuse.
- Importance of empathy, confidentiality, and ethical practice in dealing with mentally ill patients.
- The impact of socio-cultural factors on mental health treatment and stigma.
- The hospital's emphasis on long-term rehabilitation and reintegration of patients into society.
Feedback from Participants:
The visit was highly educational and eye-opening. Students appreciated the opportunity to witness clinical practices and the compassionate care provided at the institution. Many expressed a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards of working in mental health services.
Conclusion:
The visit to Gwalior Mansik Arogyashala was a significant learning experience. It helped participants connect theoretical knowledge to practical application, promoted mental health awareness, and inspired many to consider careers in psychiatric and mental health fields.
Acknowledgements:
We sincerely thank the Director and staff of Gwalior Mansik Arogyashala for their warm welcome and valuable insights. We are also grateful to our faculty for organizing this enriching visit.