The District Mental Health Department, in collaboration with the Physical and Mental Wellness Cell of Lakhimpur Commerce College, observed World Mental Health Day under the theme “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophe.” Mr. Pulin Dutta, Surveillance Inspector, outlined the objective of the programme, which aimed to promote awareness about mental wellbeing and the importance of accessible mental health services. The meeting was presided over by Dr. Lohit Hazarika, Principal of Lakhimpur Commerce College, who emphasised the significance of mental wellness for students in the present times in his inaugural speech.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Shamiul Akhter Borbora, eminent Neuro-Psychiatrist of Lakhimpur, stressed the importance of social interaction, physical activity and adequate sleep for maintaining sound mental health. He expressed concern over the rising cases of speech delay and autism-like symptoms among children due to over-dependence on mobile phones and discussed how addiction develops through observation at home and peer pressure. He also shared information about the toll-free mental health helpline 14416 and suggested screening of students at the time of admission to identify stress, depression, and learning disabilities early. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Silpi Saikia highlighted impatience as a growing mental health concern and noted the decline in reading habits and interpersonal communication due to excessive mobile phone use. Clinical Psychologist Ms. Ivamoni Saikia discussed common mental health issues among adolescents, including dissociative disorders and ADHD, and emphasised the benefits of meditation and IQ assessment in managing stress.
A skit was performed by Smriti Prakashan depicted the harmful effects of superstition and quack treatment related to mental illness, urging the public to seek professional help. A quiz competition was also conducted among the students of the college by Quiz Master Mr. Pranjal Boruah, Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science, Lakhimpur Commerce College. The first prize was won by the team of Abhijit Gogoi, Ashish Majumdar, and Pranab Taid; the second prize went to Minisha Baishnab, Ishika Biswas, and Priyangha Gogoi; and the third prize to Isnara Yesmin and Jessica Dutta.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Bobita Gohain, Psychiatric Social Worker. The programme was attended by Vice Principal Prof. Sazzad Hussain, Coordinator of the Physical and Mental Wellness Cell, Dr. Rupjyoti Bhattacharjee, Mr. Diganta Nath, District Consultant, National Vector Borne Diseases , faculty members and staff of Lakhimpur Commerce College, members of the District Mental Health Department and Office of the Joint Director of Health Services, and students of the college.
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