Interview with C Ramasubramanian on Mental Health being Equally About Justice
Dr. C. Ramasubramanian, a distinguished figure in Tamil Nadu, has dedicated his life to mental health advocacy, driven by a deeply personal motivation[1][2][3]. His journey began in 1992 when he established the M.S. Chellamuthu Trust and Research Foundation in Madurai, named after his father who inspired the vision for psychiatric rehabilitation centers[4].
A turning point in Dr. Ramasubramanian's career came with the Erwadi fire tragedy in August 2001, where 28 mentally ill patients lost their lives[5]. This event led to an invitation to support the affected community, marking a significant moment in his work.
Dr. Ramasubramanian's wife, R. Rajkumari, also played a crucial role, having been trained in rehabilitation and working alongside him in their mission[6]. Tragically, Dr. Ramasubramanian's personal journey in psychiatry was influenced by the struggle of his youngest brother with a severe mental condition[7]. This personal connection fueled his dedication to improving mental health care and resources in Tamil Nadu.
In a state that lacked adequate mental hospitals, exclusive psychiatric wards, rehabilitation centers, and basic psychiatric medicines at primary care centers[8], Dr. Ramasubramanian partnered with religious leaders, such as the Dargah Committee in Erwadi and the Sathya Sai Baba Trust in Sivakasi, to integrate modern medicine into their belief systems[9].
The M.S. Chellamuthu Trust and Research Foundation's facilities stood out due to their garden-like surroundings and legal aid cells for mental health-related legal issues[10]. M.S. Chellamuthu, a civil engineer, wished to prevent others from experiencing the silent suffering caused by inadequate mental healthcare[11].
However, it's important to note that criticism has been levied against religion, not just Islam, for fueling unscientific and sometimes harmful mental health practices in India[12]. Vocational training and economic empowerment are essential for mental health rehabilitation[13]. In an effort to address this, Tamil Nadu has included individuals with mental disabilities in the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme to provide them with jobs and a sense of dignity[14].
Despite his significant contributions, India's mental health sector still needs more trained professionals, including psychiatrists, nurses, and community volunteers[15]. Dr. Ramasubramanian, with his diploma in psychiatric medicine, a doctorate in community psychiatry, and his MD, continues to be a beacon of hope in the fight for improved mental health care in Tamil Nadu.
- Dr. Ramasubramanian's work in mental health advocacy also extends to health-and-wellness, as he understands that a holistic approach is necessary for effective care.
- Recognizing the importance of education in mental health, Dr. Ramasubramanian partnered with religious leaders to integrate modern science into their belief systems, bridging the gap between tradition and scientific mental health practices.
- In addition to establishing psychiatric rehabilitation centers, Dr. Ramasubramanian and his wife, R. Rajkumari, also prioritized vocational training and economic empowerment as crucial components of mental health rehabilitation.
- Despite the criticism against certain practices in the context of science and religion, Dr. Ramasubramanian's contributions to mental health education, research, and care in Tamil Nadu have been a significant step towards improved mental health for all its citizens.
