Press Release from Health & Family Welfare Department, Pakyong District.
Mental Health Awareness Programme Held at Linkey Secondary School, Pakyong District
Pakyong, September 24: The Department of Health and Family Welfare, Pakyong District, organised a Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Awareness Programme at Linkey Secondary School with a special focus on adolescent mental well-being. The initiative aimed at sensitising young students and teachers on the importance of mental health, early intervention, and the need to break the stigma surrounding psychological issues.
The programme was attended by students and faculty members of the school, who actively participated in the interactive sessions. The resource persons for the day were Dr Madan Mani Dhakal, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Pakyong District, and Dr Kuljan Lama, Medical Officer (AYUSH).
Addressing the gathering, Dr Dhakal emphasised the significance of open communication and emotional sharing among adolescents. He underlined that creating a safe environment where individuals can speak about their struggles without fear of judgment is vital. He also stressed the importance of confidentiality in such conversations, reassuring students that sharing one’s feelings can play a key role in preventing mental health crises.
Dr Lama, on the other hand, offered a thought-provoking perspective by drawing parallels between physical and emotional injuries. He highlighted that while people readily seek treatment for bodily wounds and illnesses, emotional wounds are often neglected. “If left unaddressed, these unhealed emotional injuries can turn into deep-rooted mental health issues over time,” he said, urging students and teachers to pay equal attention to their emotional well-being.
Dr Lama also took session on the availability of AYUSH services at Pakyong Hospital. He urged to the students and teachers to make use of the available services which is free of cost. At present Pakyong Hospital provides AYURVEDIC and HOMEOPATHY system of medicine.
The programme concluded with an interactive session where students were encouraged to express their thoughts and ask questions, fostering an environment of openness and awareness.
The Department of Health and Family Welfare stated that such initiatives would continue across the district to promote a healthier, more supportive environment for adolescents and to combat the rising concerns related to stress, depression, and suicide among young people.
