Participants and resource person at the one day seminar on mental health awareness jointly organized by the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) Dimapur and Chümoukedima Town Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship on July 8 at Town Baptist Church, Chümoukedima.
DIMAPUR, JULY 8 (MExN): A one day seminar on mental health awareness jointly organized by the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) Dimapur and Chümoukedima Town Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship was held on July 8 at Town Baptist Church, Chümoukedima.
Resource person Kikruwheno Terhuja, Clinical Psychologist, DMHP Dimapur while presenting an overview on mental health stated that WHO defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well being and not merely the absence of diseases and infirmities.
She said signs of a good mental health are realising one’s ability, being able to cope with normal stresses in life, able to work productively, and being able to contribute to the society. Pinpointing stress as one of the main trigger for mental illness, she however, maintained that a little stress in life is normal and good for one’s development as it motivates us to discipline ourselves. But a prolonged stress can lead to a major mental illness.
Towards this, Terhuja informed that the simple ways to deal with stress are to prioritize one’s work, being organized, cultivating a hobby, developing a support system, and regulate use of social media platforms. If the stress prolongs, it is best to seek professional help, she added.
Dr Temsuyanger, Psychiatrist, Nodal Officer, DMHP Dimapur presented some of the common symptoms of mental and psychological disorders. He also debunked some of the common misconceptions associated mental health. He further discussed drugs and alcohol use disorders in both adolescents and adults.
Earlier at the programme, Temsuchuba, SDO (c) Chümoukedima while giving his words of encouragement shared that as per a mental health survey conducted in 2016, 14% of Chümoukedima’ s population required mental health treatment.
Pointing out that mental health awareness is needed today more than ever; Temsuchuba said an imbalance mental health creates an imbalance society. To this, he opined that the church, which is the best platform to disseminate awareness in our society, should take initiative in spreading awareness on mental health. He further shared that one of the best way to have mental stability is to have good relationship with God.
Earlier at the programmme, opening remarks and prayer was led by Pastor Teiciesalhou Denuh, Chakhesang Baptist Church, Chümoukedima and the closing prayer was delivered by Pastor Neingusazo Kire, Town Baptist Church, Chümoukedima.
