The office of the District Medical and Health Officer, South Garo Hills organised a mental health awareness program at District Sports Playground in Baghmara today.
Deputy Commissioner, S. Awasthi highlighted the basic aspects of mental health and expressed his concern about the importance of addressing the stigma around mental illness, which is widely prevalent in the younger community.
He emphasised the need to train teachers as master trainers so that they can educate their students about the importance of mental health. Lack of knowledge about mental illness poses a challenge to mental health care, he said.
He further stated that physical and mental health goes hand in hand, and advised that being physically healthy also contributes to being mentally healthy.
He also urged the students present not to spend too much time playing mobile games but instead to engage in outdoor activities like sports.
The gathering was also urged to understand the burden of mental disorders and informed about the availability of helpline number 14410 in the district.
The District Mental Health Nodal Officer in Baghmara has been engaged to provide counseling for those suffering from any kind of mental health issues.
As part of the program, students from various schools also participated in a rally which started at Baldil Centre and ended at the playground.
