Media Release
Udupi, Oct 13: CSI Lombard Memorial Hospital group of institutions marked World Mental Health Day on October 10 with a comprehensive programme held at the Lombard Memorial (Mission) Hospital campus, with the theme, “Mental health in humanitarian emergencies”
The programme was inaugurated by Dr Suja Karkada, principal of the College of Nursing, who delivered the keynote address. Dr Suja Karkada stressed the paramount importance of safeguarding the mental health of the health care fraternity itself, recognising their frontline role, particularly during times of catastrophe and emergency.
The event, which brought together students from all Lombard Memorial institutions, was expertly planned and coordinated by Biju S, Professor in Mental Health Nursing, and vice principal of the college of nursing. The session was aimed to focus on equipping the health care professional students to enrich their knowledge and skills in handling psychiatric emergencies in disasters and catastrophes.
The expert session was handled by Renjulal Yesodharan, assistant professor in Mental Health Nursing from Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal. Renjulal Yesodharan’s insightful presentation covered diverse aspects of mental health, especially in crisis situations. He reiterated in the session that "Nurses are a frontline force in the healthcare delivery system. To meet the future challenges created by natural or man-made calamities, we should be shielded with updated knowledge and evidence based practices."
The session concluded with a powerful call to action: cultivating a comprehensive, coordinated, proactive, and whole-society approach to mental health. The emphasis was placed on implementing prevention and recovery actions in a manner that is both accessible and equitable for all members of the community.
In addition to the educational session, the day’s activities included a scientific poster and essay competition based on the central theme. The program concluded with the presentation of awards to the successful student participants, celebrating their contribution and engagement with this vital mental health topic.
The observance successfully underscored the urgent need to address mental health services during emergencies and fostered greater awareness and dialogue among the next generation of healthcare professionals and institutional students.
A total of 300 students participated in the session. The programme was organised by the Lombard College of Nursing.
Lavanya Pearl Gojar, Tutor compiled the programme and Rahel Soans, assistant lecturer introduced the chief guest and thanked the audience.