Srinagar, Nov 13 (KNO): Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakina Itoo on Wednesday called for open discussions around child mental health. She said the supportive networks --- parents, teachers and community members --- have a critical role in fostering children's resilience.
During a one-day conference on "Child Mental Health and Psychological Wellbeing" organised by IMHANS-K, the minister, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO, spoke specifically about the damaging effects of bullying and urged for proactive support systems to shield young minds from its adverse impact. "The parents and educators must work collaboratively to create a supportive environment for children and help them navigate stress, anxiety and other mental health issues," she said.
Itoo stressed the importance of recognising early signs of distress in children and taking proactive measures to address these challenges.
"Teachers and parents must be vigilant and sensitive towards the emotional needs of children," she said. "They are the first line of defence in identifying signs of mental health issues."
In his address, Secretary, Health and Medical Education, Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah underscored the urgency of addressing child mental health issues, saying that the emotional well-being of children is fundamental to a strong society. He said, "Our investment in child mental health is an investment in our future. Failure to address these issues risks losing a valuable resource for children."
The Health Secretary called for collaboration between parents, healthcare providers, and the community to create a supportive environment that nurtures children's growth and development.
"Prioritising child health is essential for reducing long-term healthcare costs and building a healthy, productive adult population that can contribute positively to society," Dr Shah said.
The conference featured addresses from other key dignitaries, including Ms Vijaylakshmi Arora, Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF, who discussed the significance of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) for children. Prof Dr Zaid Ahmad Wani, Head of the Child Guidance and Wellbeing Center, presented an overview of the centre's journey, highlighting its milestones. He mentioned that the centre has catered to more than 35,000 children/adolescents since its inception and has reached out to almost 36,000 individuals via outreach programmes.
This was followed by a presentation from Prof Dr Maqbool Dar, Head of IMHANS-K, who elaborated on the institution's efforts and achievements in the mental health field.
Other eminent figures, including Prof Dr Arshad Hussain Head of Unit, IMHANS-K, Dr Ajaz Baba, MS, IMHANS-K and Prof Dr Yasir Hussain Rather, Incharge, DDC, also graced the occasion with their presence.
During the inaugural session, dignitaries launched two significant publications: the Biennial Report of CGWC-IMHANS (2022-2023) and a newly developed training curriculum for frontline workers. The report revealed that the centre had provided mental health support to 18,006 children and adolescents at the tertiary level and had reached 17,356 individuals through community outreach.
Additionally, 2,190 frontline workers, including ASHA and ICDS workers and teachers, received training in mental health support during this period. It also highlighted the various mental health diagnosis and precipitating factors leading to mental health issues among children and adolescents.
Alongside the conference sessions, a roundtable conference on "Community Rehabilitation of Substance-Related Disorders" brought together experts and stakeholders to address the growing issue of substance abuse and explore effective community-based interventions for rehabilitation.
Following the inaugural session, panel discussions tackled critical themes including "Holistic Health: Integrating Child Mental Health in the Education System", "Building a Community-Based Mental Health Support Network" and "POCSO and Child Mental Health". These discussions provided a platform for experts to share insights and collaboratively explore strategies to enhance child mental health services and awareness in educational and community settings.
The conference concluded with closing remarks from Mr Hilal Bhat, Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF J&K, who presented a summary of the day's discussions and outlined a strategic way forward for child mental health and psychosocial well-being in the region. Dr Ajaz Suhaff, Assistant Professor at IMHANS-K, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all participants and supporters who contributed to the success of the event—(KNO)