World Mental Health Day 2025 was observed today in Kakching District under the theme “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.” The event was jointly organised by the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), District Health Society, Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), and Pole Star College, Hiyanglam-Wabagai, at the college hall.
The programme featured SDO Kakching Kherdananda Potshangbam as Chief Guest, Chief Medical Officer Kakching Dr. Thoudem Rajen as President, and Principal of Pole Star College Dr. E. Gopal, District Nodal Officer (DMHP) Dr. Kh. Gopeshwar, and District Programme Manager O. Pushpa as Guests of Honour.
In his keynote address, Dr. Kh. Gopeshwar said this year’s theme holds special relevance for Manipur, noting that the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing conflict has affected the mental well-being of nearly two-thirds of the population. He stressed the importance of empathy and outreach to those living in relief camps and coping with trauma.
Chief Guest Kherdananda Potshangbam highlighted the psychological toll of displacement and family separation, urging people to speak openly about mental health and extend emotional support to those in distress.
As part of the observance, ASHA workers from Hiyanglam PHC organised a bicycle rally from Hiyanglam-Wabagai Lamkhai to Pole Star College to spread awareness about mental health and promote the message of healing and hope.
