As we reflect on how psychiatry has evolved over the decades, the story of schizophrenia offers a poignant example. Our understanding of the disorder has come a long way since late 19th century when Emil Kraepelin first suggested the term Dementia Praecox to denote the disorder. Not much later in the early 20th Century, Eugene Bleuler gave it the name Schizophrenia, as we know it now. The word derives from Latin roots meaning, a split of the mind – something that better reflects the nature of this condition. Around the same time as Eugene Bleuer gave us a name, Kurt Schnieder gave us a clearer description of what the disorder entails. That understanding has evolved over the years.
With the evolution of its conceptualisation, we have been able to produce better theoretical models to explain the disorder. With advances in pharmacology, psychosocial interventions, and community-based care, many individuals with schizophrenia today can lead meaningful, productive lives. Continued research promises to further enhance their quality of life. As a new editor to the MINDS newsletter, I would like to urge the readers to renew their commitment to raise awareness of Schizophrenia, fight the stigma around it, and to ensure accessible care to the individuals with it.
Through my first editorial I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my mentors and guides for giving this huge opportunity and placing the confidence in me to carry forward the legacy of this newsletter. It is a great privilege to be the editor of the MINDS Newsletter, which was launched in July 2011, as a monthly publication aimed at uniting medical undergraduates, postgraduates, doctors, and psychiatry educators on a shared platform. Since its beginning, it has been warmly received and appreciated by thousands of medical students and professionals across India. A proud moment in its journey was receiving a message of inspiration and recognition from the former President of India, the late Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, on the occasion of Teacher’s Day.
Numerous stalwarts of psychiatry across the country have served the newsletter at its helm. And I take this opportunity with immense pride and solemn responsibility to add my name to the list of its esteemed editors. The responsibility is huge, and the benchmarks are high. With the hope to meet the expectations and to help this newsletter scale new heights I begin my servitude to the newsletter.
And as I do, I am reminded of a wise aphorism by none other than the Father of Medicine, “Ars longa, vita brevis.” Indeed, as Hippocrates quipped, the art of medicine is long, and the life is short. So, it would not be well to waste time and be deprived of this fleeting opportunity to learn this craft.
Warm Regards,
Dr. Priyash Jain
Editor, MINDS Newsletter
