Serious upsurge of PTSD patients in Jammu hospitals

‘More cases likely to come’

PS BALI

Jammu, Oct 15

The incidence of psychological trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the Jammu Psychiatrist hospitals has risen by more than 100 per cent, following the flash floods and most recent cross border firing, according to psychiatrists at Jammu hospital.

Talking to Greater Kashmir, Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr. Manu Arora said that the number of patients have doubled in the past two months and on daily basis, eight to ten patients visit them.

Dr Arora said that since September, due to flash floods and border firing, the number of patients is on rise and will escalate further. He said that of those treated, 82 per cent are middle aged, besides youth.

He said that at present they are dealing with two types of patients suffering with PTSD.

“Due to prevailing situation in the state, we are dealing with two types of patients, those who are already suffering with psychological problems and those who are terrified by recent flash floods and border firing,” said Dr Arora.

He said that due to firing at borders, the minor psychological symptoms among patients got exaggerated because of lack of proper treatment.

“40 percent of the patients are those, who are already undergoing treatment, but due to lack of proper treatment their problems exaggerated,” he said, adding many new cases are pouring in, complaining depression, sadness, anxiety and insomnia.  

“The two consecutive tragic episodes in the state during September and October have pushed figures in mental health problems upwards,” said Dr Arora. He added, “From my experience, I would say people are frightened and disconnected due to conditions they went through.”

When asked about the kind of treatment they provide to the PSTD patients, Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr Arora said they give symptomatic treatment to the patients, depending upon the level of symptom.

“We are giving psychosocial counseling to the patients with minor symptoms, especially those who are affected of floods and border firing. While those who have shown exaggeration in symptoms are being medicated as well as counseled,” said he.

Expressing apprehension of more cases in coming days, Dr Arora said, “At present everybody is saving life, but when things will come back on track, more people are expected to visit hospitals with minor psychological symptoms,” he added that property loss would be the major concern of people that may give rise to psychological trauma and PTSD.