Kohima, October 11 (MExN): State Mental Health Institute Kohima (SMHIK) observed World Mental Health Day on October 10 at the hospital premises with the theme ‘Psychological and Mental Health First Aid.’
The talk on the main theme was delivered by Dr. Along, Psychiatrist. He opined that the stigma and discrimination against mentally ill people is still a big issue in our society, therefore stakeholders need to work together to reduce the stigma. He also said that psychological first-aid, which means listening, empathizing and non-judgmental to people in distress goes a long way in providing help to the mentally distressed.
Special invitees, Bazo Kire of Kekhrie Foundation Kohima and Abou Mere, Kripa Foundation also spoke on the occasion. They also stressed on the need to create awareness on mental health issues in the society and reduce stigma and discrimination.
The programme was chaired by Dr Viketoulie, SMO. Dr T. Wabang, Medical Superintendent welcomed all the participants, followed by special song from Christian Revival Church youth, New Market, Kohima and inmates of SMHI.
Visit to orphanage
Department of Counselling, Mount Mary College along with Institute of Psychology, Counselling and Educational Research (IPCER) team visited Galilee Home, an orphanage in Chumukedima along with students of Mount Mary College and Mount Mary Higher Secondary School, Chumukedima to observe World Mental Health Day. The Department of Counselling in collaboration with IPCER has also released a short documentary called ‘Untold’, which is about the common issues faced by any person every day and the importance of mental health.
