Manirul is a 23-year-old male, enrolled in Antara’s Care and Support program. He lives with his mother and a younger sister in the village of Ramnagar, which is under Baruipur jurisdiction, Kolkata, West Bengal.
Since early, Manirul has been suffering from epilepsy disorder. Due to his health issues, he was not employed and spent his time wandering the streets. Convulsions were a constant problem, and he was often bullied by the neighborhood and young children in his village. His mother was concerned about her son and consulted a local faith healer to solve his problem. Gradually, his problems only got worse. Often, he struggled with episodes of aggressive and violent behavior that disrupted the order in both the community and his home. Eventually, his mother made the decision to take him to Antara for treatment. One of the Mental Health Community Outreach Programs led her to learn about Antara.
At Antara, Manirul and his family received guidance and the appropriate medication for his recovery. It was not an easy treatment, and due to irregular medicine intake at home, he had to be admitted to Antara. Upon completion of his treatment and recovery, he was discharged with hope for a new life. He had a desire to work and become financially independent. To promote his job and involvement, Antara’s Community Mental Health Unit communicated with nearby industries and companies. He was offered a job by one manufacturing company.
Manirul is currently employed and making a living. He is taking his regular medications and living a life of dignity. Antara’s Community Mental Health Unit has organized various psychoeducation awareness outreach programs to combat stigma and bullying within his community.
Manirul and his family are a source of inspiration for us all. They have shown us that no disability can stop us from living a dignified life. Antara acknowledges its mental health ambassadors and encourages them to continue their tireless work towards healing and awareness.
