Wed Mar 19 11:08:13 UTC 2025: **Tiruchi’s New De-Addiction Center Treats Over 300 Patients**
TIRUCHI, March 19, 2025 – A newly opened integrated de-addiction and rehabilitation center at Tiruchi’s Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital (MGMGH) is already providing services to over 300 patients. The 20-bed center, inaugurated virtually by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on February 27th, offers a comprehensive program addressing addiction to alcohol, over-the-counter medications, and nicotine.
The facility employs two psychiatrists, counselors, nurses, security personnel, and psychologists. Currently, it has 17 in-patients and 380 registered out-patients, primarily males from low-income urban areas, aged 18-65.
Dr. A. Niranjana Devi, a psychiatrist at the center, emphasized the importance of a holistic approach, stating that addiction is a disease requiring medical intervention and motivational support to prevent relapse. The center’s 21-day detoxification program includes group therapy (such as Alcoholics Anonymous meetings), motivational sessions, and recreational activities like board games and yoga. A triage section screens patients for initial symptoms and co-morbidities. Future plans include establishing a library with relevant reading material.
First Piper 