GHMC, Visakha Psychiatric Society launch week-long awareness drive to mark Mental Health Day

VISAKHAPATNAM

The Government Hospital for Mental Care (GHMC) and the Visakha Psychiatric Society launched a week-long series of awareness events on Monday to mark National Mental Health Week, with a focus on youth support and public engagement.

Addressing a press conference, GHMC In-charge Superintendent Dr. N. Harikrishna said special emphasis is being laid on reaching out to young people to provide them with timely guidance and psychological support.

Visakha Psychiatric Society president Dr. Mallika said that World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10, was being marked this year with the theme: “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change.”

Awareness drives and competitive events—including essay writing, elocution, debates, rangoli, poster making, and skits—are currently being conducted across various local colleges and hospital premises. An interactive session with the chairman of the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) has also been scheduled.

A special session was held at the government juvenile home for girls. A team of GHMC doctors, including Dr. Sai Ram, Dr. Ammaji Rao, and Dr. Rajeshwari, along with postgraduate students, interacted with the residents. Visakha Psychiatric Society Secretary Dr. Nihal and other psychiatrists also participated.