Dimapur, Oct. 12 (EMN): ICFAI University Nagaland (IUN) organised a symposium for holistic health (SHH) in order to raise awareness on mental health. IUN organised a week-long poster campaign in collaboration with Serendip Guardians (SG), which culminated on World Mental Health Day.
A webinar on the theme “Mental Health for all- Greater Investment-Greater Access” was held on October 10, an update stated.
The webinar was moderated by Holi J Ayemi, Assistant Professor, department of Political Science and convenor, SHH, ICFAI University. Rugozevou Khate, psychiatric social worker, Serendip Guardians, the resource person for the day, said that 'mental health is not only about absence of disease but we should approach it in a holistic way.'
"It is not only physical but it has to deal with our mind and emotions," she stated. Khate cited the example of Nagaland in which the church can play a major role in creating awareness about mental health issues before consulting the professionals. She also stressed on the importance of creating awareness among our own people, friends and neighbours.
The second resource person for the day Lovika P Shikhu, assistant professor, department of Psychology, Nagaland University explained about the concept of ‘greater investment’ with regard to mental health.
"Investment here does not mean economic investment but investing our love, attention and time on someone," she said. Shikhu stressed on the importance of mental health literacy in which we need to promote more human interaction and attitudes like kindness and gratitude. According to Shikhu, "Mental health means a state of wellbeing in which every individual realises his/her potential." She also spoke about the need to contribute to the community through one's potential and talents.
The students and faculties of IUN and Nagaland University attended the webinar.