It’s important to talk about mental health: NEIGRIHMS 

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaOctober 12, 2024

To commemorate World Mental Health Day on 10th October 2024, a state-level workshop was organized by the Department of Psychiatry and the Continuing Nursing Education (CNE) Cell, NEIGRIHMS, to raise awareness on mental health. Themed “It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace,” more than 600 nursing officers from across the state attended the workshop. Aimed at advocating positive mental health in the workplace, the workshop highlighted the importance of prioritizing, promoting, and protecting mental health at work.

Prof. (Dr.) Nalin Mehta, Director of NEIGRIHMS, graced the occasion as the chief guest, while Prof. (Dr.) C. Daniala, Medical Superintendent, served as the guest of honour. The dignitaries underscored the critical importance of mental health in professional settings. Prof. (Dr.) Nalin Mehta touched upon the social stigma still attached to mental illness and urged participants to be sensitive to mental health issues, spread a positive message to change this mindset, and encourage people to seek help without hesitation. He also stressed the importance of recognizing the early signs of depression and psychological issues so that timely interventions can be implemented to prevent adverse outcomes. Additionally, he highlighted the role of teamwork in ensuring the mental wellbeing of all workers.

Prof. (Dr.) C. Daniala emphasized the need for support systems in all organizations to create an enabling work environment for everyone.

The workshop, through various interactive sessions, including didactic lectures from the Department of Psychiatry and the Continuing Nursing Education cell, was a grand success, inspiring active participation from all the delegates.