Abstract:
The thesis project is a proposal for a rehabilitation center for people suffering from emotional
behavioral disorders and substance abuse in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. In the recent decade, India
has witnessed an explosion in the population of people involved in substance abuse and
individuals suffering from various behavioral and emotional disorders. There is also, a clear
disconnect between the availability of treatment centres and the culture of seeking medical or
social interventions for addiction and mental health. This arises due to the stigma associated with
addiction and mental disorders in our society and the individual’s fear of isolation from their
family and friends and being imprisoned in asylum like institutions.
This poses an urgent demand for rehabilitation facilities that are inclusive and non –
stigmatizing. These centers have inherent advantages like greater involvement of patients in
activities, increased level of interaction, and more freedom which ultimately leads to faster
recovery times and reduced rates of relapse. Thus an active reformation of the space between
addiction and recovery is of existing concern in today’s time. This can be met by holistic healing
strategies and architecture can respond to this through the design of safe spaces and
environments in which addicts and mentally ill patients can comfortably and voluntarily seek
treatment and find support.
The Proposed Rehabilitation Centre shall cater to treatment of persons suffering from behavioral,
emotional disorders and substance abuse. This includes individuals diagnosed with alcoholism,
drug addiction, sex addiction, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, eating disorders etc. As seen
in most cases, persons suffering from addiction may also struggle with mental health issues and
vice- versa. In such situations a dual diagnosis and therefore a dual prognosis is required.
Therefore, in order to ensure chances of a healthy and lasting recovery, it is ideal to treat both
conditions simultaneously.
This Centre is thus intended as an exemplar project for future institutions in India and is
designed to promote holistic healing in the residents and help them find serenity, peace and
regain purpose in life through their time spent and experiences in the healing environment.
