DIMAPUR: Commemorating Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, a special programme titled “A Walk to Heal & Health: Men’s Mental Health Awareness” was held at Pulie Badze, Jotsoma, on June 20. The event was jointly organised by Social Concern Department of Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) and Lapiye Centre for Mental Well being, in collaboration with NSS Unit of Sazolie College, Jotsoma, and Office of Superintendent of Police, Kohima.
According to NBCC media cell, the programme brought together church representatives, law enforcement officers, students and citizens from diverse backgrounds to promote awareness and encourage open conversations on men’s mental health. It aimed to address the growing need for support among men and to challenge social stigmas that discourage help seeking.
Deputy director of Administrative Training Institute (ATI), Dr. Hovithal Sothu, attended as special guest, while director of Life Ministries, Colo Mero, shared his testimony and experiences, inspiring participants with a message of hope, resilience and faith. Special music was presented by NSS Unit of Sazolie College.
Delivering the keynote address, founder of Lapiye Centre for Mental Well being, Lovitoli Awomi, stressed the importance of creating safe spaces where men can openly discuss emotional challenges without fear of judgment. She underscored that mental health is integral to overall wellbeing and called for greater community involvement in fostering resilience and healthy coping mechanisms.
Licensed Rehabilitation Psychologist (RCI), Niutoli Jamir, presented on “The Importance of Healthy Coping in Men’s Mental Health”, encouraging participants to recognise signs of distress and view help seeking as a courageous step. Invocation was offered by Rev. Iringtie Kauring, pastor of Zeme Baptist Church, Kohima, while the session was moderated by Vitono Gugu Haralu.
