J&K SLSA observes World Mental Health Day

Srinagar: On the directions of Chief Justice Jammu and Kashmir High Court and Patron-in-Chief Jammu and Kashmir State Legal Services Authority, Gita Mittal and guidance of Executive Chairman J&K SLSA, Justice Rajesh Bindal, “World Mental Health Day” with this year’s theme “Mental Health for All: Greater investment and Greater Access” was observed here Saturday by J&K SLSA through District Legal Services Authorities in all districts of UTs of J&K and Ladakh.
The objective of observing the day was to raise public awareness regarding mental health issues and to stimulate and galvanize efforts towards promoting the concept of mental health.
DLSA Anantnag observed the day by organizing awareness programme at Aishmuqam which was attended by prominent citizens and Para legal volunteers for further raising awareness on mental health issues including depression, suicides and the need for self care. An “Online Conversation “was also organized on the occasion with Psychologist Dr. Mudassir Aziz who stressed upon sharing our inner thoughts with near and dear ones and being vocal about their fears and consultation with experts about health concerns.
DLSA Kupwara organised an awareness camps at Harvard Presentation School and at Legal Aid Clinic, Handwara for dissemination of message of sound mental health especially during COVID times when people are facing challenges on social, health and economic fronts.
DLSA Kulgam also organized awareness programme at Munsiff Court, Kulgam which was attended by Para Legal Volunteers.
DLSA Budgam organized an online awareness programme in conjunction with the theme of the day with resource persons Dr Tajamul CMO Budgam, Rafia Hassan, Secretary DLSA Anantnag and Advocates Sharukh and Saleem who dealt with different facets of mental health and ways to combat mental illness.
DLSA Samba observed the day by organizing series of activities including online conversations and personal interactions with different stakeholders from within the communities. An Awareness programme was organized at Diani with mentally challenged children for analytical interaction about their issues and the measures to be taken up for redress. Besides, awareness programs were also organized involving the children and local youth for the purpose of promoting healthy lifestyle patterns inclusive of sports and outdoor activities as a measure to reduce depressive tendencies among them.
DLSA Udhampur marked the day by organizing online slogan writing competition among students of NITL Higher Secondary School. Interactive sessions were also held by Para Legal Volunteers with guardians of mentally challenged persons for knowing their proble
DLSA Kathua also observed the day by organizing an awareness programme at Old Age Home, Kathua in which Dr.Savita Wazir was the resource person who highlighted various mental health issues faced by older people especially during the pandemic. A drawing competition was also organized by TLSC Billawar on the occasion.
At Katra, an awareness camp was organized by DLSA in collaboration with Health Department which was attended by Judicial Officers, Doctors, Advocates and PLVs.
DLSA Ramban and TLSC Banihal observed the day by organizing programs at PHC Ukhral and CHC Gool.
DLSA Bandipora organised awareness programme at ADR Centre which was attended by Lawyers, students, PLVs, officials of DLSA and local residents highlighting various aspects of mental health and illness.
Meanwhile, DLSA Leh also observed the day at Bogdang village in association with Health Department, Leh.
DLSA, Srinagar organized an awareness programme at Psychiatric Hospital, Badamwari to mark the celebration of the day.
The day was similarly observed by DLSAs of other districts across the UTs of J&K and Ladakh with great fervor and enthusiasm. All prescribed norms and SOP’s were strictly adhered to while organizing the programs.