Dignitaries and others during the observance of World Mental Health Day held at SMHI Kohima on October 15. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | October 15
The State Mental Health Institute (SMHI) Kohima and Tele-Manas Cell Nagaland celebrated World Mental Health Day under the theme, ‘It’s time to prioritise mental health in the work place’ at SMHI, Kohima on October 15.
Dr Chikrozho Kezo, State Program Officer, NMHP stressed on the need to have a healthy mind and to give due importance towards mental health services and programmes in the state. He also called for building healthy atmosphere in the work place.
Dr Nuvotso Khesoh, Senior Medical Officer, SMHI Kohima said, “We are living in a fast-paced world, where stress, anxiety, and burnout have become alarmingly common, and yet mental health in the workplace is often overlooked. Today, we must take a moment to reflect on why prioritizing mental health in our work environments is not only necessary but critical for the well-being of individuals and organizations alike.”
He said that the workplace is where many of “us spend a substantial portion of our lives. It is a place where we contribute, grow, and collaborate. But too often, it is also a place where mental health challenges are hidden, ignored, or stigmatized.” According to the World Health Organization, depression and anxiety are among the leading causes of disability worldwide, and they are often exacerbated by workplace conditions-whether it's unrealistic deadlines, heavy workloads, or a lack of support from colleagues and managers, he said.
Dr Khesoh said that the reality is that when mental health is compromised, productivity suffers. “But more importantly, people suffer. We cannot afford to see mental health as a side issue any longer. It is time to shift our focus and make it an integral part of our workplace culture,” he said.
He stressed on the need to encourage open conversations. “First, we must break the stigma. Mental health should be discussed as openly as physical health. Employees should feel comfortable sharing their struggles without fear of judgment or repercussion,” he said.
Stressing on the need to provide access to mental health resources, Dr Khesoh said, “Mental health support should be readily available to employees. Whether it's through Employee Assistance Programs, on-site counseling services, or access to tele mental health assistance, employers need to ensure that employees know where and how to seek help. Regular workshops on stress management, mindfulness, and emotional resilience can also be powerful tools.”
When workers feel supported, they are more engaged, productive, and loyal to their organizations, he said.
‘Create a positive work environment’
Also stressing on the need to create a positive work environment, Dr Khesoh said “Fostering a culture of respect, inclusion, and support is crucial. A positive work environment, where employees feel valued and respected, significantly reduces the risk of mental health issues.”
Dr Khesoh also stressed on the need to promote work life balance. “A workplace that prioritizes mental health ensures that employees can balance the demands of their jobs with personal life responsibilities. Encouraging reasonable workloads, promoting time off, and respecting boundaries between work and personal life are all essential practices,” he added.
By prioritizing mental health in the workplace, we are not only investing in our employees’ well-being, but we are also investing in the success and sustainability of our organizations, he said. It is time to act. It is time to prioritize mental health, not just today, but every day. Together, we can create a work environment where people thrive, not just survive, he added.
Dr Khriesilie Sachu, Medical Superintendent also spoke at the programme. The programme was chaired by Suyimtenla Jamir, Clinical Psychologist, Tele-Manas Cell. Vikuonuo Suokhrie, Chaplain SMHIK prayed for the programme while vote of thanks was proposed by Dr Tiakala Walling, Senior Medical Officer.
