Ensure mental health care for the injured in mass uprising

The student-public mass uprising was the most significant event in our national life in recent times. While a mass uprising is a source of pride, it also brings great concern. Many were injured and killed in this uprising. Tragic events similar to a massacre occurred. During the days of the uprising, many ordinary people, who did not take to the streets, but were at home watching television, reading newspapers, or following the news on social media about the clashes and killings, also suffered from trauma.

For those who went to the streets and witnessed the deaths of their fellow activists, it is easy to imagine what their mental state must be. Similarly, we can also imagine the mental condition of those who are still hospitalized with injuries. While it is a matter of pride, for many, the future remains uncertain.

Some may never be able to stand on their own feet again, and some may never see the light of the world with their own eyes. Furthermore, many of them have been deprived of proper medical care, and there have been allegations regarding this; just a few months ago, the injured in the July-August uprising, held protests in front of the National Orthopaedic Hospital and Rehabilitation Institute (Pangu Hospital) in the capital, demanding proper treatment.

In a report published on Thursday (12th December), it was revealed that 75 per cent of the individuals injured during the student-public movement are suffering from varying levels of depression. Among them, more than 27.3 per cent have severe depression. More than half (54.5 per cent) are experiencing mild to very severe anxiety, and 58.2 per cent of the injured individuals show symptoms of stress or mental strain. This information was highlighted in a recent survey by the National Institute of Mental Health.

The report does not specify the exact reasons for their mental depression, but it can be assumed that the lack of proper medical care and the uncertainty about their future are major factors. They are still struggling to recover from the trauma they experienced. After such incidents, the kind of mental health treatment and care that is needed may not have been provided to them. We are proud of those who participated in the July-August mass uprising. However, the state is currently undergoing polarization in various forms. Those who did not directly participate in the uprising are being questioned in different ways.

On the other hand, some of the protesters have taken on roles in high-level policy-making in the state. More attention is being given to some of the injured and deceased, while many other injured individuals are being neglected. Their families are deeply concerned about them, and the injured people, lying in hospital beds, are suffering from depression.
The state must take responsibility for the proper treatment of these injured and depressed individuals. Not only their physical health, but also their mental health must be a priority. The state must ensure that there is no lapse in the care and treatment provided to them.