The Man with the Guaranteed Cure

Sunita's twenty-year-old son Vikas had been hearing whispers and becoming suspicious of the neighbours. He stopped studying and stayed awake at night. Frightened, Sunita asked everyone for advice. A relative told her abo…

The man spoke confidently. He did not share his qualifications, but said he had cured hundreds. He promised 'complete cure in ninety days, guaranteed' and asked for the full fee, a large sum, in advance. He told Sunita not to bother with hospitals and that she should not tell anyone else about the programme. Something about the pressure made Sunita uneasy.

That evening she told her neighbour, Mrs Dsouza, a retired nurse, who listened and then said, 'A good professional answers questions openly and never promises a miracle.' She helped Sunita write a list: What are your qualifications? Are you registered? What problems do you work with? What do you charge and what if we stop? She also told her that Vikas's symptoms needed a proper medical assessment soon.

Sunita took Vikas to the government hospital, where a psychiatrist assessed him, explained the condition and the treatment plan, and linked them to a clinical psychologist and a social worker. Sunita asked about her rights and was told that she could ask for a second opinion at any time. Vikas's recovery was gradual, but it was guided by people who were open about what they could and could not do.

How to recognise it

Sudden changes in behaviour such as hearing things others do not, strong suspicion, sleeplessness and withdrawal.
Helpers who promise guaranteed or instant cure.
Demands for large payments up front or pressure to keep things secret.
Refusal to share qualifications or registration.
Family fear and confusion pushing quick decisions.

What this story explains

This story shows the warning signs of an unsuitable helper and what to ask when choosing a professional. It also reflects the patient's right to dignity, information and a second opinion.

Probable root causes

Fear and shame in the family that make false promises attractive.
Limited awareness about where genuine care is available.
Cost worries that push families to look for fast, cheap-looking solutions.
Stigma that discourages hospital visits.
Pressure from relatives and neighbours offering well-meant but unreliable advice.

What to do

Pause before paying anything and ask for qualifications and registration.
Ask what the helper has experience with and what the plan and costs are.
Have the person assessed by a medical doctor when behaviour has changed suddenly.
Check public or government services that provide care at low cost.
Ask for a clear explanation of diagnosis, treatment and expected time.
Get a second opinion if you are unsure.

Whom to consult

Psychiatrist (medical doctor) as early as possible for sudden changes in thinking or perception.
Family doctor or government hospital to help you navigate services.
Clinical psychologist and social worker for therapy and family support once assessed.
Trusted nurse, doctor or elder in the family to review any programme before paying.

Do and don’t

Do	Don’t
Do ask questions openly.	Don't pay large sums in advance.
Do keep records of what was advised and paid.	Don't trust promises of guaranteed cure.
Do ask about confidentiality.	Don't accept secrecy about methods.
Do seek a second opinion when in doubt.	Don't delay assessment for sudden serious changes.
Do involve the person in decisions where possible.	Don't shame the person for needing care.

How to behave and communicate

Speak calmly with the family member and avoid arguing about delusional beliefs.
Say 'I believe that what you are feeling is real for you. Let us find a doctor who can help.'
Listen to fears without ridiculing them.
Avoid forcing, threatening or tricking the person into treatment unless safety demands emergency help.
With professionals, ask politely: 'Could you tell us what you recommend and why?'