Psychiatry Department
The Psychiatry and Counselling Department of IHM Marygiri Hospital was established in 1984, marking a significant milestone in the development of mental health care services in the Meenachil Taluk. The Department of Counselling was initiated first, followed by the Department of Psychiatry within six months. This pioneering initiative was the first of its kind in the taluk, addressing a critical gap in accessible psychiatric and psychological care in the region.At the time of its inception, although several hospitals such as Marian medical Centre, Carmel Hospital, Cherupushpam Hospital, and Erattupetta Hospital were functioning in the area, none offered specialized psychiatric services. Mental health care was available only at Medical College Kottayam and Caritas Hospital, both located outside the taluk. In this context, the establishment of the Psychiatry and Counselling Departments at IHM Marygiri Hospital represented a visionary step toward community-based mental health care.
Initially, the Counselling Department focused on the treatment and rehabilitation of individuals with alcohol dependence through individual counselling and group therapy. In the same year, the hospital introduced Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), the first initiative of its kind in the Meenachil Taluk. The program witnessed strong community participation, with more than 40 individuals attending weekly meetings, reflecting the urgent need and positive acceptance of such services. Counselling services were provided by Sr. Dr. Joan Chunkappura, a trained Clinical Psychologist, who visited the hospital twice a week. She was supported by Sr. Rose Mary, Sr. Anamma, and Sr. Michael, whose dedicated involvement greatly strengthened counselling activities and the AA group meetings. These services became a source of comfort, guidance, and emotional support for many individuals and families in the community.
Over the years, the department expanded its scope to include family counselling, child and adolescent counselling, alcohol-related interventions, and support for individuals with neurological and neurotic conditions. Specialized care is also provided for anxiety disorders, stress, examination phobia, emotional disturbances, and psychological challenges related to various stages of life. Through its sustained commitment to compassionate care and mental health awareness, the Psychiatry and Counselling Department of IHM Marygiri Hospital continues to play a pioneering role in delivering accessible, holistic, and patient-centred mental health services in the Meenachil Taluk.
Our Psychiatry Department provides outpatient (OP) psychiatric service only and offers compassionate and confidential care for mental health and emotional well-being. The department offers evaluation, counselling and treatment for various psychological conditions. Our experienced team focuses on holistic care, helping patients achieve better mental health and quality of life in a supportive and respect full environment. Inpatient (IP) facilities are not available for psychiatry service.