World Mental Health Day was recently observed in Dharwad, a significant event brought to life through the collaborative efforts of the District Legal Services Authority, JSS Educational Institutions, Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement, and the Dharwad Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (DIMHANS).
At the gathering held in the JSS auditorium, Senior Judge Parashuram Doddamani, who also serves as the member-secretary of the District Legal Services Authority, delivered a heartfelt address. He powerfully stressed the critical need for society to extend genuine compassion towards individuals living with mental illness.
Judge Doddamani emphasized that mentally challenged individuals possess an inherent right to live with dignity, just like every other member of society. He highlighted that societal factors such as inequality, poverty, cruelty, and violence are often underlying contributors to mental health problems. To cultivate a truly peaceful existence, he advocated for widespread adoption of non-violence, humanity, and compassion, urging everyone to provide crucial emotional support, whether within families, among friends, or in the broader community.
He further noted that with timely and appropriate medical intervention, people experiencing mental illness can indeed lead normal, fulfilling lives. He called upon psychiatrists to ensure that robust and effective treatment is provided, enabling these individuals to successfully return to a happy and productive life.
DIMHANS Director Arun Kumar reinforced these vital points, stating that both physical and mental health should be given equal importance. He encouraged fostering a positive and understanding mindset when approaching and discussing mental health issues.
For anyone facing mental health problems, a dedicated helpline, 14416, is available to provide immediate assistance and information.
The impactful program was presided over by JSS College Principal Venkatesh Mutalik and saw the attendance of ITI College Principal Mahaveer Upadhye, Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement branch manager Mohan Kumar Thambad, among other esteemed guests.