‘Dendrite’ use not openly discussed: ADC Dmu

Additional deputy commissioner (ADC), Dimapur, Mhalo Humtsoe on Saturday disclosed that 7 lakh children were addicted to inhalant in India and that the most common inhalant used by the youth in Nagaland was “dendrite”.
She lamented that this was not openly discussed in the society.
The ADC was speaking at the launching programme of the 10-day mental health awareness campaign in the conference hall of the deputy commissioner (DC) Dimapur on the theme “make mental health & well-being for all a global priority”.
The programme is being organised by Community Mental Health Programme (CMHP) Prodigals’ Home and State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, supported by district administration, District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) and Gracious Life Foundation.
Addressing the gathering, Mhalo Humtsoe stressed that India stood far behind in terms of number of recommended psychiatrists with only about two psychiatrists per 3 lakh population.
She added that the case was even worse in Nagaland with only one government appointed psychiatrist for the entire state.
ADC stated that stigma and discrimination attached to mental illness continues to be a barrier in social inclusion. In this regard, she requested the people to contribute to the campaign by spreading awareness among family and friends.
Underscoring the importance of “World Mental Health Day”, senior medical officer (SMO) DMHP, Dr. Temsuyanger pointed out that although the day was first observed in 1992, no changes was witnessed in the past 30 years in the field of mental health, especially in Nagaland.
He, however, expressed hope that this year’s theme would be worked on throughout the upcoming year, and suggested measures to address mental health issues in Nagaland.
At the programme, director, Prodigals’ Home, K. Ela welcomed the gathering and briefed on the awareness campaign while short speeches were delivered by DDLSA member Sangto Longchar and programme coordinator, state commissioner for PwDs Ashe Kiba.
A special prayer song was also offered by children of Prodigals Home and dedicatory prayer by Nathan Yanlem from Kingdom Culture Church. The launching programme was followed by launching of the poster campaign.