Ampati, Oct 10: The observation of World Mental Health Week 2025 in South West Garo Hills culminated on Friday with a comprehensive awareness program marking World Mental Health Day at Salmanpara under the theme: “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes & Emergencies”.
The event organized under the aegis of District Mental Health Program (DMHP), was led by District Nodal Officer Dr. L.C Matgrik and supported by various district level health units and services. These included Adolescent Friendly Health Centre (AFHC) of Ampati Civil Hospital, District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW) and One-Stop Centre (OSC), among others.
The program featured insightful talks from various officials and professionals who addressed different dimensions of mental health and highlighted the services available in the district. Speakers included: Psychiatric Social Worker, Canius N. Sangma and Psychologist Lenibell Dokatchi B Marak, both of Ampati Civil Hospital, District Mission Coordinator of DHEW, S. Jakrime R.Marak, Centre Administrator cum Protection Officer, OSC, Ampati, S.Rikrakchi M. Marak, and District Nodal Officer on Palliative Care, Dr. Amit Hajong.
An Outrach program – Friend’s Corner by AFHC, Ampati Civil Hospital, observation of World Hospice & Palliative Care Day and free health check up camp for the community were some of the highlights of the day-long celebration.
Earlier on Thursday, a series of student-focused activities like, quiz, essay writing and painting competitions were also conducted for students as part of mental health awareness program at Adolescent Health Resource Centre, Chengkompara, engaging nearly 100 students from schools across Ampati. The program was aimed at promoting awareness about the importance of mental health to encourage young minds to express their understanding of mental well-being through creative and intellectual activities.
The prizes were distributed to the winners by officials of DHMP and DHEW who encouraged students to continue promoting mental health awareness within their schools and communities.
