About Ahana
Discover Ahana Hospitals’ history, from its founding in Madurai in 2008 to its multidisciplinary approach to psychiatric care, psychological support, family involvement and rehabilitation.
How Ahana began
Mrs Sharmila Vikhram and Dr Vikhram Ramasubramanian founded Ahana Hospitals in Madurai in 2008. Their aim was to make comprehensive neuropsychiatric care more accessible to people from different backgrounds.
At first, Ahana operated as an 8-bedded neuropsychiatric hospital. Since then, the organisation has expanded its mental-healthcare services while keeping a multidisciplinary focus on psychiatric care, psychological support, family involvement and rehabilitation.
From its origins in Madurai, Ahana has grown into a network of mental-healthcare services across multiple Madurai centres, with psychological services also available through Ahana Wellness in Chennai. The organisation has also developed an integrated clinical-research programme alongside its clinical services.
The organisation grew from the recognition that mental-healthcare should bring psychiatric assessment, psychological support, nursing care, family involvement and rehabilitation thinking together—not treat symptoms in isolation.
Our approach to mental-healthcare
At Ahana, we look at the whole person, including symptoms, physical health, family and social context, risks, strengths, goals and everyday functioning. Therefore, our team develops an individual care plan rather than relying on a diagnosis alone.
- Respectful, confidential and non-judgemental care.
- Assessment before treatment decisions.
- Collaboration with patients and families where appropriate.
- Integration of medical, psychological and recovery-oriented care.
- Regular review as needs and circumstances change.
Care across different needs
Ahana Hospitals supports adults, children and adolescents, older people, and individuals affected by addiction. The team can guide people who need outpatient, inpatient or urgent assessment. However, services and clinician availability differ by centre, so contact the relevant centre before travelling.
Why recovery matters
Good mental-healthcare is not limited to reducing symptoms. Recovery may involve rebuilding confidence, daily routines, relationships, education, work, independence and participation in community life. The pace and meaning of recovery differ for every person.
Working with families
Families can share important history and offer practical support. However, the care team involves them in ways that respect the patient’s consent, confidentiality, decision-making capacity, clinical needs and applicable law.
Looking ahead
Ahana continues to develop its clinical services, professional teams, research activity and patient information. As the organisation grows, we will continue to prioritise safety, ethical practice, measurable quality and the needs of patients and families.
Need help deciding what to do next?
Speak with the Ahana Hospitals care team for guidance based on your needs and the services currently available.
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