North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) Chümoukedima, organised a ‘Mental Health’ program on at NEISSR Cultural Hall, on Tuesday. A press release by NEISSR informed that the aim of the awareness programme was to foster a more informed society regarding mental health issues.
The resource person for the programme was Non-Medical Faculty, Department of Community Medicine, Diphu Medical College and Hospital, Diphu, Dr. Amit Das.
Dr. Das elucidated the concept of health, particularly focusing on mental well-being. Drawing from the World Health Organization’s definition, he characterized mental health as “a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.”
He also highlighted the key traits of a mentally healthy individual, emphasizing attributes such as self-acceptance, self-respect, interpersonal trust, adaptability to life’s demands, independent thinking, and a sense of responsibility towards daily tasks and emphasised on the warning signs indicative of poor mental health, urging the students to remain vigilant and proactive in recognizing potential struggles.
He advocated for self-care practices, seeking support from trusted confidants, and championing the rights, opportunities, and care for individuals grappling with mental disorders.