Wellness Club launched at Wangkhao Government College

DIMAPUR — Commemorating World Mental Health Day, the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) under the District Health Society, Mon, in collaboration with Wangkhao Government College (WGC), officially launched the ‘WGC Wellness Club’ at the college premises on October 17.

An update from the office of the chief medical officer (CMO), Mon, stated that the initiative aims to strengthen partnerships between health institutions and educational establishments to promote mental health awareness, fostering a safe and supportive environment within the college and the broader community.

As part of its ongoing efforts, it stated DMHP team would conduct a series of information, education and communication (IEC) activities from October 10 to November 10. The activities would focus on mental health promotion, early identification and treatment, capacity building and improving access and utilisation of mental health services across the district.

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In her welcome address, the college’s principal, Dr. Tialila, expressed gratitude to DMHP team for their partnership.

“College life is a journey of ambition, growth and discovery, and in this hectic journey it is crucial to maintain emotional and physical well-being,” she said. She also lauded the initiative for its positive approach and expressed hope that the collaboration would encourage and open meaningful conversations surrounding mental, emotional and physical health.

Dr. Wungyong Konyak, DPO (RCH & UIP), highlighted that health awareness in the community often requires consistent effort from the department even in areas like maternal and child health. He emphasised that mental health remains one of the most neglected aspects of overall well-being.

He urged the students to remain focused on their goals and seek help when they feel lost, assuring that the DMHP team would always be available to guide and support their mental health journey.

Delivering the keynote address, K Loungnyem Konyak, psychiatric social worker, recounted the journey of forming the wellness club and the growing community response to mental health initiatives.

“Earlier, we were the ones knocking on every door; today, civil societies invite us as resource persons,” he remarked, noting a positive shift in public attitude. He, however, pointed out that stigma and cultural barriers persist.

“With the launch of wellness club, we envision breaking those barriers,” he added. Loungnyem also outlined the club’s vision, mission and objectives and invited the students and faculty members to join the collective effort “to heal and be healed.”

The programme was chaired by H David Konyak, assistant professor, and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Linokali Sumi, clinical psychologist.