Pahalgam Terror Attack: Mumbai’s BMC Hospitals Launch Emergency Mental Health Services For Victims’ Families

Mumbai: As families of the deceased and the victims of the Pahalgam terrorist attack have return to their homes, and many others tourists are on their way back, the Maharashtra government has started special mental health care services to help the families recover from what can be called as most traumatic episode of their lives. In Mumbai, the emergency mental health care services are started in the four major BMC-run hospitals - KEM, Nair, Sion and Cooper Hospital.

"At these four major municipal hospitals in Mumbai, services will be provided from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, including counseling, assessment of acute stress, screening for PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), medication, and hospitalization if required."

"Emergency counseling and medication for stress, insomnia, restlessness, and flashbacks of the incident will also be available during the night hours from 4:00 PM to 9:00 AM at these hospitals," the statement released by the government said.

The suicide prevention helpline HITGUJ (022-24131212) will be operational from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, during which trained counselors will assess mental health symptoms and refer patients to the hospital if needed.

The relatives of the victims welcomed the government step. "We lost our brother, and our nephew is injured with a bullet wound. His mother is also recovering from the shock," said Kaushik Lele, brother of Dombivali resident Sanjay Lele who was shot dead by the terrorist.

Kaushik said Lele's family still haven't got any physical rest as the funeral took place on Wednesday night and their actual mental condition would be known after couple of days when they come to terms with the situation.

"But I am sure many victims would show signs of restlessness and trauma after facing the terrorists, it is beyond our imagination. Councelling would definitely be helpful," he said.