World Mental Health Day celebrated widely
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 10 2025: World Mental Health Day was celebrated widely in the State today to raise awareness of mental health issues and mobilize efforts to support mental well-being.

This year's theme "Access to Services- Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies", highlights the crucial need to strengthen mental health support during crises like natural disasters, conflicts, and pandemics, ensuring services are available and prioritized alongside physical health for those affected by traumatic events.

RIMS

Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, observed World Mental Health Day 2025 under the theme, "Access to Services- Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies" at the New OPD Block today.

The programme was jointly organised by the Department of Clinical Psychology and the Department of Psychiatry, RIMS, Imphal.

Prof G Sunil Kumar Sharma, Director, RIMS, Imphal inaugurated the programme by cutting the ribbon of the awareness stall in the presence of Prof S Subhaschandra Singh, Medical Superintendent (i/c), RIMS Hospital, Imphal; Prof L Rajesh Singh, Dean (Academics); Dr S Gojendra Singh, Head, Department of Psychiatry; and Dr Sameeta Ng, HoD (i/c), Department of Clinical Psychology, RIMS, Imphal.

Addressing the gathering, Prof G Sunil Kumar emphasized that mental health is a universal right and should be accessible to all.

He noted that Manipur has been deeply affected by mental health challenges over the past two years due to the ongoing conflict and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

He also informed that under the Government of India's initiative, RIMS operates the Tele-MANAS Helpline (14416)- a 24x7 confidential service under the National Health Mission (NHM), Manipur, offering free mental health support.

The Director further encouraged individuals in distress to seek help through this helpline.

Several stalls dedicated to mental health screening and support services were set up to create awareness and provide assistance to the public.

Pamphlets on mental health awareness were distributed to visitors throughout the programme.

Psychological assessment was also done for a total of 142 individuals during the event.

The programme was attended by the Heads of Departments, faculty members, staff, and students of RIMS, Imphal.

CRPF

86 Battalion CRPF observed World Mental Health Day at Battalion Headquarter Lamphelpat, Imphal today with the theme "Access to Services-Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies", reminding everyone that good mental health is not a privilege for a few but a fundamental right for all irrespective of age, gender, or background.

The programme featured guest speakers from Shija Hospitals & Research Institute namely Dr Meesha Haorongbam, Consultant Psychiatrist; and Nidhibala Athokpam, Consultant Psychologist.

Dr Meesha gave a talk on "Mental Health and Wellbeing", highlighting the importance of emotional resilience and self-care in challenging situations while Nidhibala spoke on "Psychological First Aid", focusing on stress management recognizing emotional distress, and applying grounding techniques and exercises.

Addressing the gathering, Ravindra Kumar, 2-I/C, 86 Battalion CRPF, reaffirmed the battalion's commitment to the welfare of its personnel and the local community.

He also underlined that mental well-being is as vital as physical fitness, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility in suicide prevention.

During the event, participants pledged to listen more, judge less, and support those who may be silently struggling echoing the message that every mind matters and every heart deserves to heal.

Lions Clubs

On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, the Lions Clubs of District 322-D under the guidance of Lions International president AP Singh organised an awareness programme on the topic, "Let Us Talk About Mental Health" .

The awareness programme was held at Little Flower School, Kwakeithel Sangaiprou as part of the Mental Health and Well-being Week.

The programme was jointly organised by the Lions Club of Imphal ChanUra, Imphal Paradise, Imphal Golden Pride, Imphal Ningol Collective, Imphal Leimarol, Canchipur Greater, and Imphal Global, in association with the Past Pupil Association of Little Flower School.

Dr RK Lenin and Dr Mona Nongmeikapam from RIMS, Imphal attended the programme as resource persons.

Around 250 students and 9 teaching staff participated in the interactive session promoting awareness, resilience, and positive mental well-being.

Moreover, the Lions Club of Imphal Central also celebrated World Mental Health Day by organising a special programme at Millennium School, Patsoi Block, Imphal on the theme, "Happy Mind, Healthy Life" .

The programme was attended by dignitaries, including O Jibanchandra Singh, club president; Keisham James, Principal, Millennium School; Indian Psychiatric Society president Prof K Shantibala Devi and secretary Dr Nelson Loitongbam.

Yumnam Ranjit Singh, region chair-VI; and Dr Th Babulu, club vice president were also present at the event.

Manipur University

Joining the rest of the world, the Department of Psychology, Manipur University also observed World Mental Health Day 2025 at the conference hall of Commerce Department, MU, Imphal today.

The event was graced by Prof Hanjabam Shukhdeba Sharma, Director, College Development Council, MU; Dr RK Lenin, former Head, Department of Psychiatry, RIMS Imphal; and Prof S Jibonkumar Singh, Dean, School of Human & Environmental Science and Head, Department of Psychology, MU as presidium members.

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