CHÜMOUKEDIMA, OCTOBER 10 (MExN): Mount Mary College, Chümoukedima, hosted the first edition of PsychWave 2025, a two-day psychology fest held on October 9 in observance of World Mental Health Day, under the theme “Exploring Minds, Inspiring Waves.”
The event was organised in collaboration with the District Mental Health Programme, District Hospital Dimapur, and Gracious Life Foundation. MLA Manpon C. Konyak graced the inaugural programme as the Guest of Honour.
Delivering the welcome address, Dr Basant Giri, IQAC Coordinator of the college, said that “the bravest thing one can do is to ask for help,” while highlighting the institution’s focus on the 4 Cs — Communication, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, and Creativity — as the pillars of its educational approach.
In his keynote address, Konyak urged students to treat mental health conversations as a necessity rather than an option. Sharing personal experiences, he recalled being bedridden three years ago and said the “desire to live” became a turning point that strengthened his belief in the link between physical and mental well-being.
He underscored the importance of “small gestures” such as a handshake, smile, or pat on the back, which, he said, “build encouragement and hope.” Reflecting on his first electoral loss, Konyak spoke about resilience and perseverance, urging students to remain grounded yet ambitious.
Addressing broader social issues, he questioned, “How long shall we live with the rich history of the past?” and called for collective efforts to rise above tribalism and factionalism, which he said contribute to social and psychological divides.
Encouraging youth participation in politics, Konyak remarked that “politics is not only for the rich,” adding that citizens must engage in clean and responsible politics. “We have often been critics of society rather than torchbearers,” he said, encouraging students to be proactive changemakers.
Concluding his address, he urged the audience to carry forward the compassion displayed during the COVID-19 pandemic, stating, “Before we are chained again, let us be better humans.”
As part of the two-day event, PsychWave 2025 will continue on October 10 with a panel discussion on “Social Stigma on Mental Health and Building a Supportive Society.” Experts, mental health professionals, and advocates will share insights on awareness, stigma reduction, and creating supportive communities.
