Abstract
Background
Restraint and seclusion serve as interventions used in acute psychiatry settings to manage aggression and violence among individuals with mental illness (PLwMI). However, instances of secluding and chaining PLwMI and those with Intellectual Developmental Disorders have been reported in rural areas of India, where psychiatry services are limited. These individuals were often confined in unsanitary conditions at home for prolonged periods without medical support, constituting severe human rights violations.
Aim
To address the lack of literature pertaining to the challenges encountered by families in liberating chained individuals living with disabilities, this case series aims to outline the multi-modal interventions employed in achieving the unchaining of two individuals from restraint and seclusion in a community setting.
Methods
The case series delineates the multi-modal interventions deployed, incorporating diverse approaches to facilitate the liberation of individuals living with disabilities from restraint and seclusion. These interventions were instrumental in achieving unchaining, highlighting the proactive advocacy efforts and comprehensive use of various modalities.
Results
The multi-modal interventions, which included medication and behavioral support, as well as incremental release from restraint, outlined in this case study proved effective in successfully unchaining two individuals living with disabilities from restraint and seclusion within a community setting. Notably, the dedicated efforts and strong advocacy by NGO staff played a pivotal role in achieving these outcomes.
Conclusion
The proactive use of multi-modal interventions, alongside dedicated advocacy efforts, emerged as essential components in achieving the liberation of individuals living with disabilities from restraint and seclusion. This case series emphasizes the significance of a comprehensive approach to address human rights violations and foster inclusion and well-being for individuals with disabilities in the community.