Kohima Press Club visits State Mental Health Institute Kohima

DIMAPUR — As part of the yearlong celebration of its 25th anniversary, the Kohima Press Club (KPC) on Thursday visited the State Mental Health Institute Kohima (SMHIK).

The visitation is also part of the 79th Independence Day visitation of institutions/homes, stated a press statement issued by the club.

Giving a brief introduction, Vishü Rita Krocha, general secretary of Kohima Press Club, expressed that this year's visitation is particularly significant as it is one of the activities marking the yearlong celebration of the 25th anniversary of the KPC, which will be observing its 25th foundation day on January 20, 2026.

She extended her best wishes to the SMHIK on behalf of the club and also acknowledged the caregivers, who have been providing the best possible care despite the many challenges that they are confronted with.

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The KPC also contributed essentials to the State Mental Health Institute Kohima, which currently has six patients, comprising one female and five males.

During the interaction with the media, Dr. Nuvotso Khesoh, senior medical officer, SMHIK, remarked that the media plays a very important role in creating awareness on mental health, breaking stigma and acceptance. "We really need your support in our journey of care and hope for these patients," he stated.

In spite of many challenges, he mentioned that they had made some positive contributions, highlighting the facilities and services at the SMHIK, such as the Tele-MANAS Cell Nagaland, the kitchen, new dining hall, library, conference hall, and hospital staff canteen, all of which had been initiated to provide a more humane environment for the patients.

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Suyimtenla Jamir, clinical psychologist, Tele-MANAS Cell Nagaland, SMHIK, highlighted the inception of the oldest and only mental health institute in the state, which dates back to the 1960s and was later officially inaugurated in 1977. Speaking about the Tele-MANAS service, which anybody can avail by dialling the toll-free number 14416, she said that the service is free and kept confidential.

While noting that people generally approach religious institutions first for any mental health-related issue, she observed that there has been a steady rise in individuals breaking social barriers and coming forward to avail services at the SMHIK. She added that, instead of segregation, there is now a sense of collaboration.

She added that Tele-MANAS has registered a very high number of cases relating to exam stress and relationships. She further mentioned that SMHIK is also conducting numerous awareness programmes and has hosted hundreds of interns at the Institute.