Belgaum: Marking a significant step towards strengthening mental healthcare and rehabilitation services in North Karnataka, the ‘Parivartan’ Rehabilitation and De-addiction Centre was inaugurated at KLE Centenary Charitable Hospital, Yellur Road, Belgaum, by Padma Shri Dr. Prabhakar Kore, Honorary Chairman of KLE Society and Chancellor of KAHER.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Prabhakar Kore appreciated the Department of Psychiatry for establishing the specialized facility, emphasizing the growing need for comprehensive mental health and rehabilitation infrastructure to help individuals overcome addiction and reintegrate into mainstream society.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Belgaum City, highlighted the alarming rise in alcohol and substance abuse, stating that addiction not only affects individuals but also causes severe emotional, social, and financial distress to families. He noted that addiction often leads to domestic violence, assaults, and abuse of women and children, making rehabilitation services more essential than ever.
Dr. H.B. Rajashekhar, Director of USM-KLE, explained that the centre’s 30-day residential rehabilitation programme includes psychiatric consultations, counselling by trained psychologists and psychiatric social workers, yoga and meditation, round-the-clock nursing care, nutritious meals, family counselling, recreational therapy, and various therapeutic sessions aimed at helping patients regain independence.
Hospital Chief Operating Officer Mr. Navin N. said the hospital has always prioritized community health and launched the “Parivartan” centre in response to the growing need for professional de-addiction services. The centre will provide treatment, counselling, rehabilitation, and life-skills training under one roof.
Dr. Antonio Carvalho informed that the centre will be managed by a multidisciplinary team of experienced psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers, ensuring holistic patient care in a stigma-free environment.
Medical Superintendent Dr. Sanjay Kambar emphasized that addiction should be viewed as a treatable medical condition rather than a moral failure. The centre will offer specialized services including medical detoxification, evidence-based psychotherapy, family therapy, and long-term relapse prevention programmes.
Medical and non-medical staff members, along with nursing students, attended the inauguration. The programme was compered by Dr. Sanjeevini Rathod, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Ashwini Padmashali.
