A call for disability inclusion that must be needed.

General Studies Paper – 2

 Context:

• The article highlights the need for innovative solutions in neuropsychiatry, focusing on rehabilitation services.
• It emphasizes a holistic approach, professional empowerment, and the impact of scientific advances to enhance the lives of individuals with neuropsychiatric disorders globally.

Introduction:

• Reflects on the importance of International Day for Persons with Disabilities (December 3)and emphasizes the need for innovative solutions in neuropsychiatry.

Global Neuropsychiatric Disorders Landscape:

• Range across the lifespan from childhood (autism, ADHD, intellectual disability) to adolescence and adulthood (anxiety, depression, addiction, schizophrenia) to old age (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s).
• Significant impact on global population with millions affected, emphasizing the need for effective interventions.

Rehabilitation Challenges and Opportunities:

• WHO reports 2.41 billion individuals needing rehabilitation, contributing to 310 million Years of Living with Disabilities (YLD).
• Rehabilitation often overlooked, considered disability-specific, leading to under-resourcing.
• Awareness needed that disablement can be treated, even reversed, in many cases.
• Call to prioritize rehabilitation as an essential service and encourage multidisciplinary approaches.

Multidisciplinary Approach to Rehabilitation:

• Rehabilitation services must address a wide spectrum of neurological and mental health problems.
• Beyond doctors and nurses, professionals like physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and caregivers crucial.
• Emphasis on enhancing professional profiles, improving training, and creating opportunities for career development.

Scientific Advances in Neuropsychiatry:

• Non-invasive Brain Stimulation(NIBS) procedures like rTMS and FMS have proven effectiveness in various conditions.
• Transcranial Electrical Stimulation (TES) shows promise in improving memory, cognition, mood, and behavior.
• Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tA-VNS) gains importance post-COVID-19 era, investigated for depression, migraine, and dysautonomia.

Collaborative Solutions for Inclusion:

• UN’s call for disability inclusion aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
• 80% of people with disabilities reside in developing countries.
• Collaboration between governments, public and private sectors crucial for finding innovative solutions, making the world more accessible and equitable.

Conclusion:

• It is high time to make global commitment to making the world more accessible and equitable for the one billion people with disabilities, especially in developing countries.