World Mental Health Day is observed every year on October 10 to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. Nagaland too joined in the observation of the day by spreading awareness on how to overcome mental health issues.
KOHIMA: Joining the international movement for mental well-being, World Mental Health Day 2023 was observed at Nagaland Institute for Medical Science and Research (NIMSR), here on Tuesday.
Special guest, principal director, directorate of Health and Family Welfare, Dr Ritu Thurr, in his address said this year’s theme, “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right” was rightly chosen as mental health was mostly overlooked in many cases.
He said the word health encompasses the wellbeing of physical, mental, social and spiritual aspects of a person.
Dr Thurr said while it was not hard to make out the state of a person’s health, mental and social wellbeing, it was not the same for their spiritual wellbeing.
He pointed out that the main objective of observing the day globally was to identify or create awareness about mental health, sensitise those individuals who experience mental health problems.
He observed that in the past, people with mental health disorders were stigmatised and discriminated without knowing the status or the causative factors of their mental disorder.
He shared some tips in order to have positive mental issues in person’s lives which were sharing your feelings with your friends and family members, stay active, eat and drink healthy food habits, keep in touch with friends and loved ones, take a break and do something you enjoy.
Dr Chakraborty pointed out that the event was the first of its kind for the new college.
She observed that it was important for the students and teachers to have a sound mental health in order to progress.
She pointed out that studying should be enjoyable, collaborative and fun.
She further urged the students to gather as much information about mental health through various forms one of which was good movies.
Earlier the programme was chaired by asst prof, dept of Psychiatry, Dr L Longna while an introduction to world mental health day & theme was presented by psychiatric social worker, DMHP Kohima, Veronica Nriame.
Note of gratitude was proposed by psychiatric nurse, DMHP Kohima, Kethozenuo Mere.
Presentation competition on mental disorders were made by MBBS students with Prof Dr Chakraborty, HoD, dept of Community Medicine, Prof Dr Ganesh and asst Prof Dr L Longna as the panelists.
In another programme, State Mental Health Institute Kohima(SMHIK), along with District Mental Health Program (DMHP) observed the day under the theme ‘’ Mental Health is a Universal Human Right” at its premises on Tuesday.
Resource person, Senior Medical Officer (SMO) SMHIK, Dr. Nuvotso Khesoh, in his speech
informed that mental health was a basic human right for everyone noting that every human being was born with inherent dignity and that every individual had the right attain standard of mental health, including the right to be protected from mental health risks-stressful life events, social isolation, discrimination and racism, unemployment. He also said that everyone has been endowed with right to available, accessible, acceptable and good quality care and right to liberty, independence and inclusion to the community.
He also highlighted another NCRB report – “Accidental death and suicide in India, in 2021”, where than 13,000 students lost their lives. Dr. Khesoh said an average of 35 students died by suicide every day due to pressure on exam, fear of results, academic stress, incident like ragging.
Therefore, Dr Khesoh said that promoting mental health was an universal human right that involved creating an environment that supports psychological well-being, reduce stigma, and ensure access to mental health resources.
He viewed that accessible mental health services with affordable and quality mental health could help those persons overcome mental issue.
Dr Khesoh also stressed on the need for encouraging responsible media reporting on mental health issues to avoid perpetuating stereotypes and misinformation.
Medical Superintendent, SMHIK, Dr. Khriesilie Sachu in his speech underlined the definition of health and stated that the day was commemorated to spread awareness about mental health and stated that there was still a stigma in the society for those who have mental health disorder. Short speeches were also delivered by patient and patient’s relatives where they appreciated the services and supports rendered by the staff of SMHIK.
A special song was presented by the staff of SMHIK, invocation by Head Pharmacist SMHIK , Kethokhrienuo Vitso, while the programme was led by MO SMHIK Dr.Shijongyangla Longchar, and vote of thanks by nodal officer DMHP Kohima, Dr Thinuosatuo Mezhii,
CRIMHSC: In a concerted effort to promote mental health awareness, North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), Chümoukedima joined forces with the Carl Rogers Institute of Mental Health and School Counseling (CRIMHSC), Kohima to commemorate World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2023, at the Peace Centre in Chümoukedima.
Addressing the gathering, resource person, Daewon Nongmen of CRIMHSC, underscored the universal nature of mental health challenges, mentioning that, “Mental health crisis does not discriminate. It can happen to anyone.”
He emphasized that mental health issues affect individuals of all ages, genders, and ethnicities and urged everyone to openly discuss their struggles without fear of judgment.
Nongmen also highlighted the crucial role played by social workers in providing mental health support and awareness in society. He urged social workers to actively spread awareness about mental health issues, emphasizing that effective listening and empathy are essential in assisting those in need.
During the event, Vivoto Koso of CRIMHSC called upon social workers to become advocates for mental health, emphasizing that wealth cannot cure mental health issues, but reaching out to others can make a significant difference in someone’s life.
The program, chaired by Nokito T. Achumi of the MSW 3rd Semester, began with an invocation by Kivi Yeptho, also from the MSW 3rd Semester. Stephen Phom of BSW 1st Semester presented special song.
Dr. Fr. C.P. Anto, Principal of NEISSR, felicitated the resource persons for their invaluable contributions, while James, Ppresident of the Student Council for Social Change, extended vote of thanks to all participants and attendees for their support and participation in the event.
Mokokchung: Mokokchung District observed Worla Mental Health Day at Multi-purpose hall, IMDH under the theme ‘’Mental Health is a Universal Human right” organized by District Mantal Health Programme, Mokokchung in collaboration with Mokokchung District legal service authourity.
A press release by NRHM, Mokokchung district programme management unit stated that DPO (NCD)Dr. Limanaro spoke on the significant of the day.
She informed that health was not only about physical well-being but also mental wellbeing and need to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage the participants to create awareness and sensitize people on mental health.
Theme elocution was delivered by Mokokchung district legal service authority and welcome note was delivered by Vice Principal, School of Nursing IMDH.
The programme was attended by CMO Dr Kibangkumba school of nursing, Mokokchung district legal service authority and IEC staff.
WOKHA: To commemorate World Mental Day, a programme was organised by District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) Wokha at Dr. Motsuo Memorial District Hospital Wokha on October 10. Extending her greetings, Dr.Asunu Thong, consultant, DH Wokha said mental health involves everyone and emphasized on disseminating information on mental health among family, friends and colleagues.
Chief Medical Officer Wokha Dr. Zubenthung Kikon, highlighted on increasing number of patients in the district hospital and lauded the DMHP Wokha team for their effort. He informed the gathering that the mental healthcare services available in the facility should be made known to the public. He also suggested on the need to sensitized the medical staffs on mental health in order to enhance their efficiency and consistency in health services.
Speaking on the theme ‘Mental Health is a Universal Right’, Dr. Chikhrozho Kezo, Consultant Psychiatrist and Nodal Officer DMHP Wokha said Mental Health day was initiated by World Federation for Mental Health in 1992 to create awareness and promote mental health. He said the public should have knowledge of rights under the law related to mental health.
He informed that according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data, there were 14 crores of psychiatric patients and 1 crore suffering from severe mental illness.
Short speech was delivered by Dr. Rupert Peseyie, State Programme Officer, National Mental Health Programme on the Mental Healthcare Act and Telemanas.
He gave a practical demonstration on the digital services provided by Telemanas.
More information on Telemanas was provided by Likali Achum, Technical Coordinator, Telemanas. District Legal Services Agency team Wokha briefed the participants on Mental Healthcare Act 2017 and extended their support in further activities related to mental health.
A brief report on DMHP Wokha status was presented by Lireni Tungoe, Psychiatric Nurse. chairperson for the programme was Amenla Longkumer, Clinical psychologist DMHP.
ZUNHEBOTO: District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) observed World Mental Health Day at District Hospital Zunheboto and various health units throughout the district on October 10.
The theme speaker, EAC Zunheboto, Viketoulie Metha, addressed prevalent mental health disorders such as anxiety, eating, and mood disorders. Emphasizing the significance of both physical and mental health, Metha noted the societal stigma linked to mental illnesses.
He advocated for compassion towards affected individuals and urged nurses to take on counseling roles. Clinical Psychologist, Atolimi I. Khujumi shed light on the District Mental Health Programme. During the event, several healthcare workers were honored for their significant contributions in the realm of mental health.
The program commenced with an invocation by Youth Pastor of Ao Baptist Church, Watirenla, and with special performances. DPO (NCD), Dr. Mhonchan Kithan delivered welcome address.
MON: To highlight the significance of mental health, the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) celebrated World Mental Health Day on October 10.
The day began with a walkathon that commenced form helipad to the local ground, inaugurated by SDO Mon, L Mongo.
Chief Medical Officer of Mon, Dr. Vezokholu Theyo emphasized the holistic nature of health and underscored the treatability of mental disorders.
Shedding light on the legal aspects of mental health, Topha Angyen from the District Legal Service Authority spoke about its protection and universal significance.
At the event, winners of painting competition were honoured and the porgramme was chaired by Clinical Psychologist DMHP, Mon, Linokali Sumi.
MGM College: On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, MGM College’s Department of Education organized a special lecture centered on “Mental Health is a Universal Fundamental Right.”
Sr. Divya from the Medical Sisters of St. Joseph (MSJ) congregation delivered a speech.
The event concluded with vote of thanks by Sangeeta, Department of Education attended by the Vice-Principal DurgaMalakar, HOD of Education Nimmi Varghese alongside students and staffs.
SJC, Jakhama: World Mental Health Day under the theme “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right” was observed in St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous) Jakhama by Counselling Psychology students. In her short speech, Abeinuo spoke on the state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.
The counselors of the college, Sr. Anupa and Fr. C. Joseph took centre stage speaking on the importance of Mental Health for living a stable and healthy life. The event was chaired by Moile, which was followed by various items coinciding with the day’s thematic celebration.