Mental Health Advocates Emphasize Early Intervention at World Mental Health Day Event in Mangalore
Mangalore: A program commemorating World Mental Health Day was held on Wednesday at the Decennial Memorial Hall of Father Muller Medical College, highlighting the critical need for early detection and treatment of mental illnesses. The event was a collaborative effort by the District Legal Services Authority, District Administration, Zilla Panchayat, District Health and Family Welfare Department, District Mental Health Program Dakshina Kannada District, Taluk Health Officer’s Office Mangalore, and Father Muller Medical and Nursing College, Kankanady.
Jaibunnisa, Senior Civil Judge and Member Secretary of the District Legal Services Authority, inaugurated the program. In her address, she underscored the importance of the Mental Health Program in raising awareness about mental illness, particularly in addressing legal obstacles related to the rights of mental health patients. “Every individual has the right to live with dignity and harmony within society,” she stated. “Early detection and proper treatment, including counseling, are crucial to freeing individuals from the burden of mental illness.” She further emphasized the need for the Mental Health Department to intensify its efforts in raising awareness throughout the district.
Dr. Shivaprakash, Superintendent of Wenlock Hospital, addressed the concerning trend of youth succumbing to detrimental habits through social networking sites, leading to mental depression. He cautioned that an excessive focus on academic performance, coupled with unrestricted exposure to the digital world via mobile devices, often occurs without sufficient real-world knowledge, making young people vulnerable.
Rev. Fr. Faustin Lucas Lobo, Director of Father Muller Medical College, presided over the event and observed that mental illness, in various forms, is increasingly prevalent in modern society. He noted that today’s youth are often leading a “mechanical life” characterized by inactivity, unhealthy dietary habits, and a reliance on the internet at the expense of reading and other enriching activities. This lifestyle, he warned, is contributing to a rise in mental depression, suicidal tendencies, and drug addiction. He urged attendees to strive for a stress-free existence.
Dr. Sudarshan, Program Officer, District Mental Health Department, Dr. Michael Santhu Mayur, Administrator, Father Muller Medical College, Dr. Prajakta V. Rao, Psychiatrist, and Dr. Rahul M. Rao, Assistant Professor, Father Muller Medical College, were also present at the event.
Dr. Supriya Hegde, Professor of the organizing institution, delivered the welcoming address, and Jyoti K. Ullepadi, District Health Education Officer, offered the vote of thanks. The program served as a platform to reaffirm the commitment of various organizations to promoting mental health awareness and ensuring access to timely and effective treatment for those in need.