PANAJI: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated that Goa’s Institute of Psychiatry and Human Behaviour (IPHB) is witnessing a rising number of patients, many of whom have been abandoned by their families. “We have around 300 to 350 patients currently across 10 to 12 centres operated by Provedoria. Families bring their loved ones and never come back to visit them. That’s the reality. So it’s not just physical health that matters; mental health is equally important,” he said.
Speaking at a Mental Health Awareness Program for Women, organized by the Goa State Rural Livelihoods Mission, Sawant urged people to be more open about their emotions and talk about what’s on their minds. “How many of us share what’s in our minds with others? Hardly 5%. When the Prime Minister Narendra Modi can speak to the country through Mann Ki Baat, we should also learn to share our Mann Ki Baat with one another. Talking to someone and sharing what’s on your mind prevents mental illness in the long run,” he said.
He added that women, who often stay busy managing their homes, tend to suppress their emotions. “Men get the chance to talk to many people through their day, at work, in the market, with friends. But many of our sisters stay home, managing the house, children, and family. They don’t get time to share what’s on their mind. It’s important they speak up and talk, as that’s what helps maintain mental fitness,” he said.
Sawant reminded the audience that health is not just about physical fitness. “Everyone likes doing business and earning money, but tell me, how much time do we spend on ourselves? We spend time for others, but rarely for our own well-being. Just half an hour a day for ourselves, for exercise, meditation, learning, or prayer can make a difference,” he said.
Turning to the government’s new ‘Mhaje Ghar’ scheme, Sawant said it aims to bring both peace of mind and a higher Happiness Index to Goans by helping them secure legal ownership of their homes. “The scheme will protect the houses of our people who are reeling under the fear of demolition. It will allow them to live in peace in their own home. Mental peace is very important, and one can have that only in their own house,” he said.
He noted that disputes over property and fear of demolition are among the biggest sources of stress for Goans. “Every day, at least one person comes to my office with a case related to their house, whether it’s a dispute with a neighbour or within the family. If we can solve these issues, people will have true peace of mind. That’s why we brought the Mhaje Ghar scheme, to give Goans legal security and mental peace,” he added.
