 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Oct 10: The Department of Psychology, Padma Shri Padma Sachdev Government College for Women, Gandhinagar, Jammu, in collaboration with the Composite Regional Centre (CRC), Jammu, organised a seminar to mark World Mental Health Day 2025 on the global theme "Access to Services - Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies." The programme aimed to enhance awareness of mental health, highlight the need for accessible psychological support during crises, and promote collective responsibility toward mental well-being.
The event commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Palak Gupta, who underscored the critical link between mental health and overall well-being, particularly during disasters and emergencies.
Dr. Geetanjali Andotra, Principal of the College, graced the occasion as Chief Guest and in her address emphasized the need to strengthen mental health services and foster a compassionate, inclusive environment within educational institutions.
Dr. Rohnika Sharma, Director, Composite Regional Centre (CRC), Jammu, attended as Guest of Honour and commended the joint initiative. She highlighted the significant role of CRC Jammu, functioning under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DePwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, in delivering rehabilitation, counselling, and assistive support to individuals in need.
The technical sessions featured eminent speakers. Dr. Aijaz Bhat, Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychology at CRC Jammu and Global MHPSS Expert, delivered a talk on mental health in humanitarian crises, sharing insights from his extensive international humanitarian experience. Dr. Rachna Devi, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, PSPS GCW Gandhinagar, spoke on stress management and emotional regulation highlighting practical approaches to coping and resilience.
The event was organised under the guidance of Dr. Ujjwal Sharma, Head, Department of Psychology, with active support from the faculty and students. Dr. Samriti Nathyal presented the formal vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, speakers, and participants for their valuable contributions.
The seminar concluded with a reaffirmation that mental health is integral to human well-being, and ensuring access to care, especially during emergencies, remains a collective and moral imperative. |
