Dimapur, April 9 (EMN): North East Institute of Social Science and Research (NEISSR) commemorated the World Health Day on April 7, on the theme “Depression- let’s talk”. The programme was conducted to signify the importance of health which is not only the absence of disease but a state of complete physical, mental and social being and understand the different aspects of depression prevailing in the society. The programme was stressed on the role of the social workers to bring a positive change and to be an asset in health sectors. Professional social workers are as such considered to be the best in dealing with these health problems by working as counselors in the educational institutions and communities.
During the programme, different speakers highlighted on the concept, root causes, effect of depression and search for possibilities to handle depression in a professional manner.
Napoleon K highlighted the causes of depression among youth in Nagaland and motivated the MSW students to venture out and lend a helping hand to the victims to make their life productive.
Judith Huidina, assistant professor NEISSR, brought about the concept, facts and issues of depression and cited the quotation stated by Laurell K. Hamilton, Mistral’s Kiss on the concept of depression that “there are wounds that never show on the body that are deeper and more hurtful than anything that bleeds.”
She also pointed out that according to WHO, depression is more common among teens, adolescents, youth, women after childbirth and those above 60. Further, she suggested that government needs to increase investment for people with mental health disorder, introduce improved support system and scale up programmes with mental health disorders, better funding for research to facilitate better services and trained human resources for better mental healthcare.
Rev. Dr C.P. Anto Paul, Principal of NEISSR highlighted the signs and symptoms of depression and urged on the importance of setting up of counseling centres in various settings like educational institutions, hospitals, family and the community at large.
Dr. Toli Kiba, assistant professor NEISSR shared her personal experience.
