People with mental illness are among the most neglected members of society, often receiving tease instead of sympathy. The severity of this issue is not widely recognized. Like any other illness, mental health conditions require treatment, which can be psychological, medical, or both.

Persons with mental illness often wander the streets, needing shelter and treatment. They should have the freedom to participate in society while receiving medication and counseling during their stay in any facility.

Currently, Vikash is working with 1,047 people with mental illness (PWMI) across five districts in Odisha. Home visits are essential and beneficial for these people. Many PWMIs improve after taking prescribed medications, which their families sometimes discontinue prematurely. Regular counseling emphasizes consulting a doctor before stopping medication to determine if it needs to be continued or adjusted. PWMIs are also being counseled to become independent in daily living and household tasks. This follow-up process continues for six months.