Kerala, known for its excellent healthcare infrastructure, offers a range of mental health hospitals that provide treatment to individuals struggling with various psychiatric conditions.
These institutions combine modern treatment methodologies with a deep understanding of mental well-being to address a spectrum of mental health disorders.
With both government and private facilities dedicated to mental health, Kerala’s hospitals offer services such as inpatient care, outpatient consultations, and community mental health initiatives.
This article explores some of the top mental health hospitals in the state and the critical role they play in promoting mental wellness.
Kerala Mental Health Statistics
Kerala’s mental health statistics reveal significant concerns, with a lifetime prevalence of mental morbidity among adults at 14.14%.
This translates to nearly 3 million people in the state living with mental illnesses, excluding tobacco-related disorders.
When tobacco use is factored in, the numbers rise dramatically, reaching around 4.5 million.
Approximately one in eight individuals in Kerala requires active mental health intervention. The overall prevalence of psychiatric conditions in the state is notably higher than national estimates.
Particularly concerning are the high rates of neurotic and stress-related disorders, especially among the 18–29 age group.
Contributing factors may include modernization, urbanization, unemployment, academic pressures, gender inequality, and substance use.
Despite these challenges, Kerala is home to several reputable mental health hospitals equipped to address these rising issues effectively.
Best Mental Health Hospitals in Kerala
Kerala is home to numerous excellent mental health hospitals providing a range of services across the state.
Following is a list of the best mental hospitals in Kerala.
1. Government Mental Health Centre (GMHC), Kozhikode
GMHC is a well-established govt mental hospital in Kerala, recognized for its long-standing reputation in providing mental health care.
As one of the oldest mental health institutions in the state, it has a strong bed capacity of 474 and treats around 3,000 outpatients every month.
The hospital operates 24/7, offering round-the-clock admission and emergency services to ensure that urgent mental health needs are met promptly.
Available services here include outpatient and inpatient care, emergency support, daycare, and rehabilitation programs.
Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. N. Rajendran, the facility has a dedicated team of psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, psychiatric social workers, and nursing staff.
This team collaborates to offer a range of modern treatment modalities, including modified electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), oral ketamine therapy, biofeedback therapy, and play therapy.
The hospital also engages with the community through the District Mental Health Programme, which extends mental health services beyond the facility.
2. The Mental Health Center, Oolampara
The Mental Health Center, often referred to as the Oolampara Mental Hospital, is a well-known mental hospital in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
It is a renowned government-run facility that has gained recognition even in the southern districts of neighbouring Tamil Nadu.
As one of the oldest and most well-managed mental health institutions in Kerala, it offers both outpatient and inpatient services.
The centre is known for its tranquil, lush green surroundings, which contribute to a calming atmosphere for patients undergoing treatment.
With a team of highly qualified doctors, nurses, and counsellors, the Mental Health Center provides expert care and comprehensive mental health services.
The skilled staff and serene environment ensure that patients receive quality treatment, making it a prominent facility for mental health care in the region.
3. Brain and Mind Clinic (BMC), Angamaly
Brain and Mind Clinic (BMC), located at Little Flower Hospital in Angamaly, Ernakulam district, Kerala, is a modern mental health care facility established in 2014.
Known for its state-of-the-art infrastructure, BMC is supported by a dedicated multidisciplinary team that collaborates to offer individualized mental health care plans.
The clinic emphasizes patient and family involvement, ensuring that treatment plans are shaped by their perspectives to create an empowering experience.
BMC specializes in treating conditions like OCD, PTSD, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and alcohol dependence.
Their team also addresses childhood behavioural issues such as ADHD, dyslexia, intellectual disability, and learning difficulties, offering both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.
In addition to general psychiatric care, the clinic provides family therapy, relationship counselling, cognitive therapy, and behavioural interventions.
The clinic features a 25-bed inpatient facility, offering both general wards and private rooms, including air-conditioned options.
BMC also runs an inpatient alcohol addiction program, designed to safely manage withdrawal. Online therapy sessions are available, extending access to care for those in need.
4. Assisi Hospital, Kottayam
Assisi Hospital established its mental healthcare and de-addiction department in 2012, with the primary mission of reintegrating individuals with chronic mental illnesses back into society.
The facility caters to those diagnosed with severe and enduring psychiatric conditions, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, mood disorders (mania and depression), and anxiety disorders.
They also cater to individuals who suffer from dementia, phobias, personality disorders, and various substance addictions, including alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, and other drugs.
The hospital is known for offering some of the most effective mental health treatments available, combined with a personalized approach that focuses on building patient confidence and hope.
At Assisi Hospital, an expert team of healthcare specialists delivers compassionate care, ensuring that each patient receives both advanced treatment and dedicated attention.
Through their efforts, patients find a path toward recovery and reintegration into everyday life.
5. Aster Medcity, Kochi
Aster Medcity, located in Kochi, offers comprehensive mental health care under one roof, using advanced medical technologies and a team of highly experienced psychiatrists and clinical staff.
The hospital uses innovations such as telepsychiatry, neuroimaging, genetic testing, and digital health tools to enhance the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care of mental health conditions.
Their psychiatric team specializes in treating a range of mental health disorders, including PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, and substance use disorders.
Both acute and chronic conditions are addressed, with continuous support provided to patients throughout their treatment journey.
Aster Medcity’s psychiatrists develop personalized treatment plans according to the mental health needs of each patient.
These plans are based on thorough psychiatric evaluations, medical histories, and symptoms, guided by evidence-based practices.
6. Caritas Hospital, Thellakom
Caritas Hospital‘s psychiatry department offers specialized care for a wide range of mental health conditions in a supportive and private environment.
The hospital is renowned for treating disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, dementia, substance abuse, and addiction.
With a multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers, Caritas ensures evidence-based treatments for patients of all ages, including both pediatric and geriatric care.
As one of Kerala’s leading psychiatric hospitals, Caritas places a strong emphasis on raising mental health awareness.
The team provides thorough evaluations, diagnoses, and tailored treatments combining medication and therapy.
Additionally, the hospital offers individual and group counselling to help patients cope with stress, trauma, and other mental health challenges.
The hospital also offers specialized services for learning and behavioral disorders, psychosexual disorders, sleep disorders, and de-addiction.
7. Leela Hospital, Kottayam
Leela Hospital is a licensed psychiatric hospital, de-addiction unit, and rehabilitation facility located in the tranquil setting of Puthuppally, Kottayam.
Renowned as one of the leading mental health hospitals in South India, it offers economical yet high-quality psychiatric care while ensuring patient privacy during consultations.
Leela Hospital does not require patients to have bystanders accompanying them during their stay, promoting an atmosphere of independence and focus on recovery.
The facility spans an extensive 10,000 square feet and accommodates between 40 to 70 patients, featuring high-quality granite flooring in 80% of the area and direct access to drinking water.
Managed by a dedicated team of qualified doctors, clinical psychologists, counsellors, and nurses, Leela Hospital is committed to providing effective and compassionate treatment.
Inpatient treatment durations range from one week to two months, depending on the severity of the illness.
The hospital emphasizes a balanced approach to medication, utilizing moderate doses to maintain a conscious mental state.
Their therapeutic methods include medication management, scientific counselling, psychotherapy, group therapy, family therapy, weekly Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings, and hypnosis.
Additionally, the hospital provides round-the-clock nursing care, laundry facilities for patients, and ambulance services for the safe transfer of mental health and de-addiction patients.
Inpatient and Outpatient Mental Health Facilities in Kerala
The mental health facilities in Kerala mentioned above offer a wide range of both inpatient and outpatient services.
For inpatient care, the services include detailed initial psychiatric and psychological assessments, followed by the development of individualized treatment plans.
Patients benefit from daily rounds conducted by the unit doctor, ensuring ongoing evaluation and adjustment of care.
Treatment options within inpatient settings encompass pharmacotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy, and psychotherapy.
Treatment may also include a variety of rehabilitative and legal services aimed at supporting the patient’s recovery and reintegration into society.
In terms of outpatient care, these facilities provide diverse therapeutic interventions, including ECT, oral ketamine therapy, biofeedback therapy, and play therapy.
Outpatient programs also include cognitive and behavioural therapy, parental and relationship counselling, family therapy, and remediation therapy.
Additionally, special education services and training in activities of daily living (ADL) are offered to children to help them develop essential life skills and improve their quality of life.
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Top Adolescent Mental Health Facilities in Kerala
Several prominent facilities mentioned above, e.g., the Brain and Mind Clinic, Caritas Hospital, and Aster Medcity, offer a range of services specifically tailored for children and adolescents.
These institutions provide both inpatient and outpatient care, ensuring comprehensive support for young patients.
The services available encompass IQ testing, assessments for learning disabilities, and remedial teaching for dyslexic children.
Additionally, they offer counseling services, training in activities of daily living, and school liaison work to facilitate smoother transitions for students.
Parenting support, advocacy, and child guidance are integral components of the support system provided.
The facilities also conduct thorough assessments and therapy for children and adolescents diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Furthermore, psychotherapy is available for adolescents dealing with emotional issues such as anxiety, phobias, anger, temper tantrums, stress reactions, depression, and dissociative disorders.
Counselling and psychotherapy are also offered for adolescents experiencing conduct disorders, oppositional defiant disorders, adjustment issues, risk behaviours, and various addictive behaviours.
Top Mental Health Doctors in Kerala
Kerala has many highly skilled and dedicated psychiatrists and psychologists, renowned for their expertise in providing exceptional mental health care to patients.
Some of them are mentioned below.
1. Dr. Aiswarya S. Mohan
Dr. Aiswarya S Mohan is a compassionate and experienced psychiatrist who specializes in treating mental health disorders across all age groups.
As a valued member of the team at Aster Medcity’s multispecialty wing, she holds an MBBS degree from AIIMS Bhubaneshwar and an MD in Psychiatry from Government Medical College.
Dr. Mohan is known for her patient-centred approach, offering personalized care with empathy and professionalism.
She is fluent in English, Hindi, Odiya, and Malayalam, which allows her to connect effectively with patients from diverse backgrounds.
2. Dr. T.R. John
Dr. T R John, a senior consultant in psychiatry, has over 22 years of expertise in treating behavioral and mental disorders in adults and children.
He specializes in mood disorders, stress management, and suicide prevention, particularly among individuals with high stress levels.
Dr. John has a deep interest in women’s mental health, wellness psychiatry, and addressing the psychiatric aspects of organ transplantation.
His experience and commitment make him a key figure in developing and implementing effective mental health strategies at Aster Medcity.
3. Ms. Gana P. C.
Ms. Gana P C is a licensed clinical psychologist with 13 years of clinical experience in the field of psychology.
With an MSc and an MPhil in clinical psychology, she specializes in adult and adolescent mental health, including anxiety, stress-related disorders, OCD, and depression.
Her expertise also extends to personality disorders, family counseling, teen counseling, and adolescent adjustment issues.
Ms. Gana has undergone intensive training in neuropsychological evaluation, cognitive remediation, autism and ADHD management, and various psychotherapeutic approaches.
She is also active in research and teaching.
4. Dr. Namitha M. Das
Dr. Namitha M Das is a skilled psychiatrist specializing in managing mental disorders in patients of all ages.
Dr. Das holds an MD in psychiatry from Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, and an MBBS from Pariyaram Medical College.
She has a strong focus on suicide prevention, de-addiction treatment, and neurodevelopmental disorders, including ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and intellectual disabilities.
As a consultant at Aster Medcity’s multispecialty wing, she is trained in general, child, adolescent, and geriatric psychiatry, making her a versatile and valuable team member.
5. Dr. Suresh Ninan
Dr. Suresh Ninan is a highly experienced senior consultant psychiatrist with over 35 years of clinical expertise.
Currently heading the psychiatry department at Caritas Hospital, where he has served for 20 years, Dr. Ninan is renowned for his patient-centered approach in treating mentally ill patients.
He has earned the trust of numerous patients over his extensive career and is proficient in English, Malayalam, Hindi, and Tamil.
6. Dr. Tom C. Babu
Dr. Tom C. Babu, a consultant psychiatrist with more than 10 years of experience, specializes in the management of psychiatric disorders in both adults and children.
He holds an MBBS from Government Medical College, Thrissur, and an MD in psychiatry from Government Medical College, Kottayam.
Dr. Babu has worked in various roles within Kerala’s government health services, including serving as the Nodal Officer for the District Mental Health Program in Wayanad.
He is known for his contributions to medical education and community mental health initiatives.
7. Dr. Chikku Mathew
Dr. Chikku Mathew is a senior specialist in psychiatry with over eight years of experience, particularly focused on child and adolescent psychiatry.
She has worked as a consultant at Mercy Hospital and as a senior resident at Government Medical College, Kottayam.
Recognized for her dedication, Dr. Mathew received the prestigious Young Psychiatrist Award from the Indian Psychiatric Society, Kerala Branch, in 2023.
FAQ’s:
1. What is the mental health rate in Kerala?
The lifetime prevalence of mental morbidity in Kerala is 14.14%, meaning approximately 1 in 8 people experience mental health issues requiring intervention.
2. What is the cost of poor mental health?
Poor mental health can lead to reduced productivity, increased healthcare costs, strained relationships, and a higher risk of chronic physical conditions.
3. How to talk to a mentally ill person?
Approach mentally ill people with empathy, patience, and nonjudgment. Listen actively, avoid minimizing their feelings, and encourage them to seek professional help if needed.
4. What are the health statistics of Kerala?
Kerala has a high life expectancy and low infant mortality, but also reports higher mental health issues compared to national averages, with significant rates of neurotic and stress-related disorders.
