MANIPUR RIMS PATIENT ATTENDANT DIES BY SUICIDE ON CAMPUS: A WAKE-UP CALL FOR MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
SHORT SUMMARY OF THE INCIDENT
On August 6, 2025, Sagolsen Sanatomba (55), a patient attendant in the Psychiatric Department at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, was found dead by suicide in the TB-ward bike shed on campus. His body, discovered hanging from a ceiling fan around 4 AM, was located only after his wife—also a RIMS attendant—reported him missing. No note was found. Lamphel police have registered an unnatural death case, and the body is undergoing post-mortem at the RIMS mortuary.
DEEP DIVE: EXPLORING THE INCIDENT AND ITS BROADER IMPLICATIONS
The Tragic Discovery
It was in the uneasy pre-dawn darkness of August 6 when RIMS security personnel heard nothing—only an eerie stillness around the TB-ward bike shed. Around 4 AM, the lifeless form of Sagolsen Sanatomba was found hanging from a ceiling fan. Colleagues quickly alerted the authorities, and within the hour, Lamphel police arrived, cordoning off the area. The initial shock rippled through the sprawling government hospital campus: how could a man whose life revolved around caring for others reach such despair?
Who Was Sagolsen Sanatomba?
- Age & Background: At 55, Sagolsen was a seasoned attendant from Sagolband Thingom Leikai in Imphal West.
- Family: He lived on campus quarters with his wife, Sagolsem Thoibi (also a RIMS attendant in Gynaecology), and their two children—grown adults now forging careers of their own.
- Role at RIMS: For over a decade, Sanatomba worked tirelessly in the Psychiatric Department, often volunteering for overnight shifts to support mental health patients at odd hours. His colleagues remember him as soft-spoken, dedicated, and willing to step in whenever crisis calls.
A Tribute to Sagolsen: Honoring His Legacy
In the wake of his passing, RIMS staff have begun:
- Planting a Memorial Tree: In the hospital’s central garden, a sapling of Arjuna (known in Ayurveda for stress relief), dedicated in his name.
- Establishing a Support Fund: Small monthly stipends to help his widow and children, managed by the hospital welfare committee.
- Annual “Caregiver Day”: A day for staff to relax, share stories, and honor colleagues—born from his memory.
These gestures ensure Sagolsen’s impact endures, and remind everyone that behind every attendant is a human being worthy of care.
FAQs
1. What warning signs suggest a healthcare worker might be struggling mentally?
Look for changes in mood, withdrawal from colleagues, irritability, declining performance, frequent absences, or talk of hopelessness—any of which warrant a gentle check-in.
2. Are there legal obligations for hospitals to provide mental health support to staff?
While no uniform national mandate exists, many state health commissions recommend staff-wellness cells. Hospitals are also bound by the Mental Healthcare Act (2017) to promote mental well-being.
3. What should a colleague do if they suspect someone is at suicide risk?
Approach them with empathy, listen without judgment, encourage professional help, inform supervisors or HR, and do not leave the person alone until help arrives.
4. How can families support patient attendants facing high stress?
Maintain open communication, encourage breaks, help manage household tasks, and accompany them to counseling sessions if they agree.
5. Where can RIMS staff seek confidential counseling today?
Currently, RIMS has one on-campus psychologist reachable via the HR office. Staff can also call the national KIRAN helpline (1800-5990019) for 24×7 emotional support.
