Srinagar : The Department of Psychiatry at Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH) recently hosted a Continuing Medical Education (CME) program titled “Real Life, Real Stories: A CME on Women’s Mental Health.”
The event featured prominent attendees, including KMCH’s Managing Director, Executive Director, and various healthcare professionals, emphasizing the importance of addressing women’s mental health issues. During the program, Executive Director Insha Qazi announced the introduction of specialized mental health services at KMCH, aimed at enhancing accessibility and responsiveness to diverse societal needs. These services include a Polysomnography Clinic, EEG support, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for insomnia, and a dedicated Workplace Burnout Clinic for staff. Additionally, a Women’s Emotional Wellness Clinic was established to focus on pregnancy-related mental health and postpartum depression, alongside a self-help group for menopausal women. The hospital also launched a confidential Mind Check-Up service for stress and anxiety, a Sleep Clinic for various sleep disorders, and a Student and Young Adult Clinic addressing issues like exam anxiety and relationship stress. The CME addressed critical aspects of women’s mental health, including the burden of depression and the unique challenges women face throughout different life stages. Presentations by various experts highlighted the social stigma and lack of awareness that often hinder women from seeking timely mental healthcare. The discussions underscored the need for open conversations and greater awareness to reduce stigma and promote healing. The program concluded with a commitment to strengthening a compassionate and specialized mental healthcare system for women, emphasizing the importance of listening, learning, and supporting women’s mental health needs.
