WHY & HOW WE DO IT
Thinking nothing can be done for the mentally ill is a misconception
Mental illness is no laughing matter. The pain never goes away. The voices never stop. The scars don’t heal. Life becomes one never-ending torment. Yet, unlike what society thinks, there is hope. Mental illness can be effectively treated and managed.
The notion that mental illness is permanent and unchangeable is far from the truth. With the right support, resources, and treatment at Abayashram, these women find relief, regain control, and are able to lead fulfilling lives.
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Mental illness doesn’t just happen. It’s a disease of society’s apathy
Why
Uncovering the 'Why'
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Stigma scatters commonsense and empathy
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A report from the National Commission for Women (2016) reveals that families who wilfully abandon mentally ill women do so because of social stigma.
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Research by Mental Health professionals in India confirms that it's all too common for women to be abandoned if diagnosed with a mental illness. And few reach out for professional help or care because of ridicule and shame.
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A 2014 report by The Human Rights Watch disclosed that women in India with mental and psychological disabilities are ‘treated worse than animals’, and often subjected to abuse, violence, and rape.
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As per an IHBAS study, there are 0.5 beds available for every 10,000 people of the population in psychiatric hospitals across the country and there is shortage of therapeutic facilities too.
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Fewer shelters for women compared to men.
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Huge ignorance on the availability of treatment and resources for the seriously, mentally ill.
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Moreover, high expenses that go into treating and caring for the mentally ill deter economically, disadvantaged families.
Awareness Campaigns
Shining the light on mental illness myths
Abayashram not only provides solace and treatment for its residents, but we also actively work towards destigmatizing mental health issues affecting women, as well as HIV-related challenges. Through the tireless efforts of our social workers and volunteers, regular awareness events are organized to foster open conversations about mental well-being and dispel the myths surrounding mental illness and AIDs including the falsehoods and dangers of witchcraft & sorcery.
Our awareness programs focus on sensitising the illiterate, families, and society at large on the importance of care and sensitivity needed to aid the journey of the mentally ill and HIV afflicted towards complete wellness.
By reaching out to the wider community, we are able to transform perceptions, break down barriers, and pave the way for a society that embraces the mental ill and those affected by HIV & AIDS with empathy, compassion and understanding.
Awareness campaigns we spearheaded that have played a pivotal role in driving positive change:
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HIV (AIDs) Awareness
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Mental Health Awareness
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Human Rights Awareness.
Vocational Training
Rekindling the flames of Independence, Restoring Dignity
Abayashram is dedicated to not only nurturing the mental well-being of our residents but also empowering them with economic independence and personal growth.
Upon their recovery, we assess their individual interests and abilities, providing targeted training in various skillsets that encompass basket weaving, broom making, knitting, cooking, housekeeping, and gardening. In addition, we offer initiatives like mushroom culture, stitch craft, and leather craft along with value-oriented interventions like literacy promotion, leadership development, and de-addiction.
By engaging in these activities, our residents gain valuable expertise that enables them to carve out their own paths, thrive financially in their chosen fields, and be reintegrated into society as confident, self-reliant contributors.
Our Projects
CURRENT Projects
Abayashram - A Haven of Hope
Nurturing the Recovery and Empowerment of Mentally ill Women
Abayashram stands as a beacon of hope to the ostracized, nestled in a tranquil environment away from urban influences, surrounded by a well-maintained garden which is tended by the residents themselves. At the heart of this, is a team of compassionate individuals who work tirelessly to create a nurturing environment that encourages personal development and fosters a renewed zest for life. Over the years, its serene and homely setting has significantly contributed to the wellbeing of numerous mentally unstable women who have found refuge within its walls, offering respite and solace for their troubled minds.
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Our Impact
Since 1998, ABAYASHRAM our efforts and campaigns have had a positive and lasting impact on the lives of numerous women and their families.
• Successful Treatment and Rehabilitation
Over the years, we have successfully treated and rehabilitated more than 500 mentally ill women. Of these, 468 have been successfully reunited with their families following recovery. For those residents whose families could not be identified or located, we facilitate their transition to reputable welfare organizations that can provide the necessary support and resources for their continued well-being and integration into society.
• Breaking Chains, Restoring Lives
By safeguarding these vulnerable homeless women, we not only protect them from the risk of sexually transmitted infections such as HIV or AIDS but also shield communities from their potential spread. Additionally, these women are saved from the perils of starvation, rape, and drug abuse.
We associate with
Without the invaluable expertise and unwavering support of our esteemed partners, including churches, hospitals, and medical colleges, Vision India would not have been able to fulfill its mission of providing a place of refuge and healing for ostracized, destitute women facing serious mental health issues.
We deeply appreciate and hold in high regard our current and past partners, a few of whom are listed below:
Dr. Syamala Reddy College of Nursing
Mar Thoma Mission, Hoskote
MVJ Medical College & Hospital
NIMHANS
East Point Medical College
United Theological College, Bangalore
OWC Women's Club, Bangalore
Bangalore North University
Epicor Software India Pvt. Ltd., Bangalore
CSI Memorial Church, Whitefield
SEA College of Nursing / Social Work Dept.
St Mark’s Cathedral
Lakshmi Nursing College, Hoskote
Vasudhara Nursing College, Hoskote
Surya Nursing College, Bangalore
Kristu Jayanti College, Bangalore