Editor
Guwahati, Assam – Gauhati University’s NSS Cell marked World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2024, with a special webinar aimed at raising awareness about mental health issues, especially in the workplace. The event, which attracted students, NSS volunteers, teachers, and program officers from various colleges across Assam and even Banaras Hindu University, centered around this year’s theme, “Mental Health at Work.”
The program was inaugurated by Dr. Ranjan Kr Kakati, Director of Students' Welfare at Gauhati University, who emphasized the pressing need for mental health awareness across educational institutions. In his address, he urged the youth to develop resilience and cultivate strong mental fortitude to face life's challenges.
Mr. Jangjilong, Regional Director of NSS for the Northeast Region (NER), Guwahati, attended as the Chief Guest. He underscored the significance of mental health in today’s fast-paced world and stressed that mental well-being is essential for personal and societal development.
The keynote speaker, Dr. Nimi Borgohain, Chief Clinical Psychologist, offered a comprehensive insight into this year’s theme, describing mental health as a vast and complex field, much like an ocean. She shared her personal experiences, shedding light on various causes of mental health issues, particularly in the workplace. Dr. Borgohain proposed practical solutions such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness activities that engage the five senses to improve mental health. Additionally, she advocated for social work and the nurturing of supportive relationships as vital tools for sustaining mental well-being.
Dr. Borgohain also highlighted the importance of life skills in both personal and professional growth, encouraging individuals to integrate mental health practices into their daily lives for long-term benefits.
The webinar, coordinated by NSS volunteer Arundhati Hazarika, concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by NSS volunteer Himakshi Chaudhary. The event successfully fostered dialogue on mental health and underscored the importance of creating supportive environments in both academic and professional settings.