The Voices in Shanta’s Son

Shanta lives in a village in Odisha. Her son Mohan, twenty-two, was a quiet, hard-working student. Over the past months he has become suspicious, saying neighbours are plotting against him. He covers the windows, stops e…

Shanta lives in a village in Odisha. Her son Mohan, twenty-two, was a quiet, hard-working student. Over the past months he has become suspicious, saying neighbours are plotting against him. He covers the windows, stops eating food cooked by others and sometimes talks to someone who is not there.

Villagers whisper that he is cursed. A healer is called, and some rituals are done, but Mohan only grows more frightened. He tells his mother that voices comment on everything he does. His speech is hard to follow, and he has stopped washing and no longer goes out.

A young health worker visits and, instead of arguing about the voices, says calmly, "That sounds frightening. I believe you are really hearing them." She tells Shanta that this is an illness called psychosis, which affects how the brain sorts experience, and that treatment can help. With her encouragement, Shanta takes Mohan to the district hospital. He is started on treatment, and the family learns not to argue with his beliefs but to stay calm and keep routines. After some months he is calmer and sleeps well, and he helps in the field again.

Shanta joined a small family group at the hospital and learned that she had not caused the illness. She says that hearing this was a relief she had waited for all year.

How to recognise it

• Fixed false beliefs, such as being watched or plotted against, that cannot be shaken by logic.

• Hearing or seeing things others do not.

• Muddled, hard-to-follow speech or behaviour.

• Withdrawal, poor self-care and loss of motivation.

• Change from the person's earlier self lasting weeks, with fear and distress.

What this story explains

This story shows psychosis, including delusions, hallucinations, disorganised thinking and withdrawal, and how to respond with calm and respect.

Probable root causes

• Brain differences with a family tendency.

• Stress and sleep loss during young adulthood.

• Cannabis or other drug use in some people.

• Social isolation and stigma that delay help.

• Sometimes physical illness or substance withdrawal, which a doctor can check.

What to do

1. Stay calm and speak in a quiet, simple way.

2. Do not argue about the beliefs or voices; acknowledge the fear instead.

3. Keep the surroundings calm, with few people and low noise.

4. Take him to a doctor or hospital early rather than only to a healer, and the two can work together if the family wishes.

5. Keep food, sleep and routine as steady as possible.

6. If he is a danger to himself or others, contact the local emergency number or go to the nearest hospital.

Whom to consult

• Psychiatrist as soon as possible, as early treatment improves recovery.

• Family doctor or health worker who can arrange the referral.

• Clinical psychologist, social worker or community team for family support and rehabilitation.

• Emergency service or hospital if he is unsafe, refuses all food or water, or is in danger.

Do and don’t

How to behave and communicate

• Use a gentle, slow tone: "I can see how scared you feel. I am here with you."

• Say: "I do not hear it, but I know it is real for you."

• Use short, clear sentences and avoid sarcasm.

• Give him personal space and do not stand over him.

• Avoid shouting, arguing or crowding.