Secretary Bhanu Prabha calls for accessible mental healthcare, urges community action against stigma

EJM College marks World Mental Health Day

LEH: Administrative Secretary Bhanu Prabha, IAS, has called for building empathetic communities where mental healthcare is accessible to all, stressing the need to prioritise mental well-being and address the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

She was speaking at a World Mental Health Day programme organised by the Department of Psychology at Eliezer Joldan Memorial (EJM) College, Leh, where students and mental health professionals highlighted the importance of emotional well-being, early support and social understanding.

Bhanu Prabha, who attended the programme as the chief guest, commended the faculty and students for their initiative and emphasised the role of educational institutions in fostering awareness and creating supportive environments for people experiencing mental health difficulties.

Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Padma Angmo, the guest of honour, shared clinical perspectives on emotional well-being and stressed the need to reduce stigma associated with seeking mental health support.

Students performed a skit highlighting empathy, active listening and the role of social support networks in helping individuals cope with mental health challenges. An interactive question-and-answer session also allowed students and faculty members to engage directly with experts on mental health concerns.

Head of the Department of Psychology, Phuntsog Tsering Wangmo, delivered the opening remarks, underlining the importance of mental health awareness in academic institutions.

DIET Leh Principal Sonam Dorjey Namgial and EJM College Principal Professor Stanzin Yangdol were also present at the programme, which began with a welcome ceremony and lamp lighting, followed by the recitation of the National Song and National Anthem.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks and the presentation of tokens of appreciation to the dignitaries and participants, followed by a traditional Tashispa dance.

The programme was organised under the theme stated by the college: “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voice, Real Change.”