Mental health awareness, interactive community programmes held
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 11 2025: Apna Ghar, Intas Foundation Imphal, conducted a special three-day interactive community programme at Keishamthong, Irom Pukhri Mapal, Imphal West, under the theme, "Healing is not just medical - it is also emotional, mental, and spiritual".

The initiative highlighted the importance of holistic care in the journey of patients and caregivers, emphasizing that true healing extends beyond physical treatment A mental health expert Babita Devi said, "Medical treatment addresses the body, but healing is a process that embraces the mind, heart, and spirit as well".

"Through this programme, we hope to remind patients and caregivers that they are not alone, and that community support and inner strength are powerful tools in recovery", she added.

Notably, Intas Foundation's Apna Ghar project provides free transit homes for cancer patients and their caregivers, offering accommodation, food, transport, and counselling services at no cost.

Those in need may contact "7984084145" for assistance.

Ibotombi Institute of Education

The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of Ibotombi Institute of Education, Canchipur, in association with State TELE-MANAS, Manipur, Ya-All: The Youth Network, Imphal and the College Development Council, Manipur University, organised a Mental Health Awareness cum Counselling Programme, in connection with World Suicide Prevention Day 2025 on Thursday.

The event held under the theme "Changing the Narrative on Suicide" was graced by dignitaries, including Dr M A Sabir, Psychiatrist and District Nodal Officer.

District Mental Health Programme, Imphal East; Dr RK Bijen Singh, Principal, Ibotombi Institute of Education; Dr Karishma Yumnam, Clinical Psychologist, TELE-MANAS Cell Manipur; and Naorem Bidyalaxmi Devi, Counsellor, Ya-All: The Youth Network, Imphal.

At the event, the dignitaries emphasized the importance of early intervention, counselling support and participation of the community and all the stakeholders in addressing mental health concerns.

They highlighted the role of institutions, youth networks, and initiatives like TELE-MANAS in providing accessible psychological support to people.

The event featured a skit named "MANABA" by the Ya-All's peer group.

The skit was an extraordinary and eyeopening performance that reflected the importance of mental health and well-being and the need for embracing the diversities of the world.

Not only this, there was also an interactive counselling session, awareness talks, and discussion on mental wellbeing.

Students and those present in the programme actively participated, raising questions about stress management and coping strategies of mental illness.

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