The department of Psychology in association with the Indian Medical Association (Manipur state branch) observed the World Mental Health Day under the theme, ‘Mental health is a universal human right’ at the court hall in Manipur University on Tuesday.
The event witnessed the attendance of vice-chancellor, Manipur University professor N Lokendro Singh as the chief guest.
Indian Medical Association (Manipur State Branch) president, department of Psychiatry, RIMS professor RK Lenin Singh and former head, department of Clinical Psychology RIMS Imphal Consultant CMC, Koirengei professor M Akshayakumar Singh attended as resource persons, while dean, School of Human and Environmental Sciences, department of psychology head, professor S Jibonkumar Singh attended as the president.
On the occasion, professor N Lokendro Singh stressed on the importance of maintaining mental health and the need to raise awareness of mental illnesses. He said that the department of Psychology is a prized possession, considering that Manipur is in a dire need of Psychological services at the backdrop of the ongoing conflict.
As a state which has been adversely impacted by the Covid pandemic and again by the present conflict, there is a huge importance of having Psychological services in the state, he mentioned.
M Akshayakumar pointed out that good thoughts start from one’s heart while bad thoughts start from one’s mind. One needs to monitor one’s own feelings, emotions and thoughts in check to remain mentally healthy, he said. He stressed on the importance of learning the habit of observing one’s own thought process.
RK Lenin Singh highlighted that positive thoughts are good for keeping mentally healthy. Raising awareness on the matter can greatly assist in helping the people of different communities and societies to understand mental health issues, he mentioned.
Professor S Jibonkumar Singh highlighted the importance of removing stigma and taboo in connection with mental illnesses. He said that giving equal treatment to each and everyone, even to those suffering from mental illness, is the right attitude towards building a mentally healthy society.
He further laid stress on the important roles being taken up by psychologists in raising awareness about mental health issues, providing guidance and support for treatment and counseling etc. With such activities, psychologists have contributed much to society, he added.
Earlier on Monday, a speech and painting competition on the theme, ‘Mental health is a universal human right’ were held in the department. Students from the university and outside participated in the said competitions.
The department also provided free psychological assessment to the students and people coming to take part in the event.
