Nagaland NHAK observes World Mental Health Month

District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) under Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK), Kohima observed World Mental Health Day 2025 in collaboration with Psychology dept. Sazolie College, Phezhu Jotsoma, department of education, St. Joseph’s College (Autunomous), Jakhama and Oriental College, Kohima.
Resource persons of the programme- Ruokuotuonuo Rutsa, clinical psychologist, DMHP (NHAK) and Veronica Nriame, psychiatric social worker, DMHP, NHAK- addressed the gathering on the objectives; to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health, adding that World Mental Health Day serves as a powerful reminder that there is no health without mental health.
The resource persons who highlighted on the theme: “ Access to services – mental health in catastrophes and emergencies” stated that crises such as natural disasters, conflicts, and public health emergencies cause emotional distress, with one in five individuals experiencing a mental health condition.
Furthermore, they stressed on the year’s theme that highlights the importance of people being able to protect their mental health in times of global instability. It also supports the mental well-being of individuals during such crises is not just important – it saves lives, gives people the strength to cope, the space to heal and to recover and rebuild not only as individuals but as communities (WHO).
Stress management and mental health well-being were also discussed during the sessions.
DMHP team NHAK also held screenings sessions at Destitute Home, Kezieke and Bright Morning Star Children’s Home, Perizie on October 28 and 29 respectively.
The resource persons Dr. Thinuosatuo Mezhu, sr. psychiatrist, nodal officer, DMHP and Kethozenuo Mere, psychiatric nurse, DMHP, stressed on significance of mental health, signs and symptoms of common mental disorders, childhood and adolescent psychiatry and mental health promotion; soft skills-communication, empathy, self-awareness.
DMHP team stated that it extended its heartfelt gratitude to educational institutions for collaborating with District Mental Health Programme, Naga Hospital Authority Kohima.