Study of psychiatric morbidity among inhabitants of a destitute centre in Bhubaneswar

Dr Swati Mishra; Dr Debadatta Mohapatra; Dr Suvendu Narayan Mishra

Volume : VIII, Issue : IV, April - 2018

Study of psychiatric morbidity among inhabitants of a destitute centre in Bhubaneswar

Dr Swati Mishra, Dr Debadatta Mohapatra, Dr Suvendu Narayan Mishra

Abstract :

Background: Our nation is home to one of the highest number of homeless people in the world, with physical and psychiatric morbidity being very high as well. But relevant studies are scanty regarding their state of mental health.

Aim:The present study was conducted to explorethe prevalence and pattern of psychiatric morbidity among the inhabitants of a destitute centre.

Materials and Methods: The study was an observational,cross–sectional study conducted on 150 residents ofa destitute centre in an urban area. Residents were screened using International Classification of Mental and Behavioural Disorders–10 diagnostic criteria.Hundred and thirty four residents suggestive of psychopathology were further evaluated and grouped into different psychiatric disorders. Positive and Negative Symptom Scalewas used to assess the severity of psychiatric symptoms. Information regarding socio–demography, past & present medical and psychiatric illness history was collected in a predesigned Performa. Data were collected,tabulated and analysed usingSPSS version 20.

Results: All inhabitants (n = 150) of destitute centrewere evaluated for psychiatric co–morbidity. Among them 134 (83%) inhabitants were found to be suffering from psychiatric disorders. Most common psychiatric disorders found werepsychotic disorders n–96 (%), followed by depression 17(%), anxiety disorder in 2 (%), dementia 14(%) and 2 residents who suffering from parkinsonism. Substance abuse was present in 34 (33.87%) of the inhabitants.

Conclusion: Psychotic disorders and substance abuse are common among the homeless who reside in the destitute centre. Psychiatric disorders are likely to be the cause of significant functional impairment. This warrants the urgent need to address psychological,psychosocial and physical needs of the inhabitants staying at these centres. Early identification and intervention can ameliorate their sufferings and improve the quality of their lives.