World Mental Health Day observed across Nagaland

Dimapur, Oct. 11 (EMN): Along with the rest of the world, Mokokchung, Longleng and Phek districts observed the ‘World Mental Health Day’ on October 10 on the theme ‘“Mental health promotion and a suicidal prevention.” Mokokchung: [caption id="attachment_276388" align="aligncenter" width="565"] Rohit Singh exhorting the gathering at World Mental Health day held at Mokokchung on October 10, 2019.[/caption] In Mokokchung, World Mental Health Day was observed at Ongpangkong Salang organised by the Mokokchung District Mental Health Programme (MDMHP) in collaboration with Mokokchung District Legal Services Authority. Exhorting the gathering, Assistant Commissioner, Mokokchung, Rohit Singh, dwelt on the factors associated with suicides. He has attributed such unfortunate incidents especially among the young people due to domestic violence, lack of employment, pressure from studies, frustration, depression, neglect in society and limited society awareness. In order to prevent such incidents, Singh has stressed on the need to educate the people to cherish life and have faith in the almighty. Terming the issue ‘complex,’ Singh urged the community to identify and take care of those people who have psychological and other problems. To fight depression, he suggested encouraging one another to take interest in sports, music, yoga etc. Speech on the theme was delivered by representatives from the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) and Mokokchung District Legal Services Association (MDLSA), while the keynote address was delivered by CMO Mokokchung, Dr. Chubala. Longleng: [caption id="attachment_276394" align="aligncenter" width="565"] Members of the Longleng Town Baptist Church and organisers during the Mental Health Day in Longleng town on October 10, 2019.[/caption] In Longleng, World Mental Health Day was jointly organised by the District Mental Health Program (DMHP), Longleng, and Longleng Town Baptist Church. On the occasion, Abemo Lotha, clinical psychologist, spoke on prevailing mental health issues. He spoke about different types of mental disorders including anxiety, stress, depression, mood, eating, personality, and substance related disorder. Lotha also highlighted on the services provided by the District mental health programme. Neingu Kulnu, psychiatric and social worker, spoke on the suicide prevention. She explained that ‘Sui’ means ‘one’ and ‘cide’ means ‘killing.’ She has attributed separation, broken relationship, physical and sexual abuse as some of the causes for suicide. Dr. Wualong Agonyem, nodal officer of DMHP, chaired the programme while the vote of thanks was said by Nyiamla, women pastor of Longleng Town Baptist Church. Phek: [caption id="attachment_276397" align="alignleft" width="300"] Chotisu Sazo speaking at the World Mental Health Day programme in Phek town on October 10.[/caption] Phek district observed the World Mental Health Day in the conference hall of District Hospital, Phek, with Chotisu Sazo, MLA, as the special guest. Speaking on the occasion, Chotisu urged the doctors, nurses, public leaders etc. to take prompt action against any mentally distressed or mentally ill person. He has sought collective responsibility to create awareness in order to prevent incidents of suicide. He also spoke on the importance of proper counselling and treatment for mental illness. Dr. Senilo Magh, nodal officer of district mental health programme, spoke on the theme “Suicidal prevention.” He stated that one person dies every 40 seconds in the world by committing suicide and more than 20 individuals attempted suicide. Emphasising that prevention is the most important step to prevent suicide, he has suggested identifying warning signs like mood swings, reckless behaviour, substance abuse etc. He has also suggested seeking professional help when required. Stressing on the importance of knowing the meaning and purpose of one’s life, he urged to church leaders to play their part. In conclusion, he remarked that one should not get over-involved with an individual and forget to take care of oneself. A song was presented by Vekulu and the welcome address was delivered by Dr. Wethselo Tsuhah. Chief medical officer (CMO) Dr. Vibeituonuo Mepfuo, district programme officers, doctors, nurses, students and teachers of CHSS and GHSS Phek, and community leaders attended the programme. Phek district also launched the mental health programme on October 9 at District Hospital, Phek. The programme was launched by Dr. Neikhrielie Khimiao, additional director.