Itanagar: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recently organized a One-Day Leadership Engagement Workshop cum Training Program for Mental Health First Response in Arunachal Pradesh.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Arunachal Institute of Tribal Studies at Rajiv Gandhi University, aimed to address the rising mental health concerns among school and college students.
The workshop brought together educators from selected schools and colleges in Itanagar and Papum Pare districts. Dr. Tarun Mene, Project Principal Investigator, emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in addressing mental health issues, starting with educating students.
Dr. Leeyir Ete, Project Research Scientist-II, highlighted the alarming levels of stress, anxiety, and depression among youth and urged educators to play a crucial role in early identification of mental health distress.
The training focused on recognizing early warning signs of mental health challenges, such as withdrawal, academic decline, and anxiety. Participants were also guided on creating inclusive environments by establishing mental health committees, introducing peer support programs, and integrating counseling services within educational institutions.
The program emphasized the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and mental health professionals to build a robust support system for students. The event concluded with a vote of thanks and a shared action plan to enhance mental health infrastructure in schools and colleges.
This initiative marks a significant step towards fostering a mentally healthy and supportive educational environment in Arunachal Pradesh.
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