Mount Everest College observes World Mental Health Day – The Sangai Express

Our Correspondent
SENAPATI, Jul 31: World Mental Health Day was observed at Mount Everest College (A), Senapati, under the theme “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies”.
The programme was organised by the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), District Health Society, Senapati, in collaboration with Mount Everest College (A).
Deputy Commissioner Senapati Dharun Kumar S attended as chief guest, while Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Senapati Dr Sumpi Percy presided over the function. Medical Superintendent, District Hospital, Senapati, Dr Helen Shimray, was the guest of honour.
In her address, college Principal Dr Laishram Vijaya Devi said the event featured insightful discussions and practical tools aimed at helping participants reflect, manage their fears, support one another and prioritise meaningful aspects of life. She also expressed gratitude to the district medical team for choosing the institution to disseminate mental health awareness among students.
In his keynote address, Dr Ngouniba Peter, DNO, DMHP, Senapati, said World Mental Health Day is observed every year on October 10 to raise awareness about the importance of mental well-being and break the silence surrounding mental illness.
He said the day serves as a reminder that survival is not merely about breath and heartbeat, but also about memory, meaning and the delicate workings of the human mind.
Speaking as chief guest, DC Dharun Kumar urged people to give others a chance and refrain from judging them. Addressing the students, he said feeling stressed, exhausted or low at times is not a sign of failure and encouraged them to seek support from people they trust, including teachers, parents, siblings or others who can guide them through difficult times.
Dr Sumpi Percy, CMO Senapati, explained mental health as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
She said mental health enables individuals to realise their potential, cope with normal stresses of life, work productively and contribute to their communities, adding that there can be no physical health without mental health.
RK Elizabeth, District Programme Manager, National Health Mission, delivered the vote of thanks.