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DIMAPUR — The three-month long ‘Breaking the silence’ campaign, an awareness campaign on mental health and substance abuse with Miss Northeast 2023, Kenei Ritse; Miss Nagaland 2023, Neiketuno Sechü; and Miss Nagaland 2022, Hikali Achumi, culminated on Thursday at Patkai Christian (Autonomous) College (PCC), Chümoukedima.
The campaign was organised by ACTS (Aid, Care, Trust, Support) and supported by IGAR (North) and department of Social Welfare, Nagaland. The campaign was held across 7 districts in Nagaland as well as in Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh.
Speaking at the culmination programme, Manish Kumar, Inspector General of Assam Rifles (North) and the chief guest, informed that Assam Rifle could seized drugs worth INR 4000 crore over the last three years in the northeast region, excluding the drugs seized by police personnel.
While stating that the challenges might seem daunting, he however said they are not beyond the collective strength of everyone. He expressed that the mission to eliminate substance abuse is beyond the capability of any single group or individual to accomplish alone, but it requires the dedication of every member of society.
Kenei Ritse, speaking on the importance of mental health, shared that feeling stress is normal for everyone. She, however, stated that if it starts affecting the daily affairs, then it could lead to bad mental health. She mentioned that mental health starts from three factors namely genetics, abuse and traumas, environmental factors.
She pointed out that mental health issues are not talked about in the society because of stigmatisation. In this regard, she stated that the society should ‘break the silence.’
She expressed that depression and anxiety are mental illness but people do not empathise with them. To get rid of depression, Ritse stated that the best way is to seek professional help. She added that seeking therapy should never be considered as a sign of weakness.
Neiketuno Sechü also stressed that awareness on mental health and substance abuse is crucial among the youth. She also cited instances how the use of cannabis has become common among the students.
On the issue of mental health, she asked the students and youth to talk about it and try to reach out to others. He said many people suffer from mental health issues but nobody talks about it.
Sharing about the campaign, Hikali Achumi stated that it was also a ‘beauty with a purpose’ project and they are passionate to talk about mental health and substance abuse. She further acknowledged everyone who participated and supported in the campaign.
Sumi traditional dance, songs and dance were performed by the students of Patkai Christian College. The Rhinos jazz band and Imna Yaden also performed at the culmination programme.