SHILLONG — Suicide prevention, the legal rights of people with mental illness and the role of sports in managing stress were among the key issues discussed during a World Mental Health Day programme at Mawten Community Hall in South West Khasi Hills on Saturday.
Organised by the District Mental Health Programme (DM&HP) in collaboration with St. Anthony’s College, Shillong, the District Sports Office and the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), the programme was held under the theme “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change”.
District Medical and Health Officer Dr C. Lamin spoke about the need to listen to people who have experienced mental health challenges. The theme placed emphasis on their experiences, an aspect often missing from public discussions that tend to focus on awareness without giving enough space to those directly affected.
E. Syiemlieh, Physical Training Instructor under the District Sports Office, spoke about the role of physical activity in maintaining mental well-being. He said participation in indoor and outdoor games could help students manage stress, reduce anxiety and depression, strengthen self-esteem and build confidence.
The legal dimension was addressed by Chief Judicial Magistrate-cum-DLSA Secretary B. Majaw, who discussed the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, and the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017. She highlighted the need to protect the rights of people with mental illness and ensure access to appropriate healthcare services.
Majaw also explained the free legal aid available through district legal services authorities. Assistance includes legal representation, preparation of documents and affidavits, and guidance on approaching government departments. She encouraged students and members of the public to seek help from their respective DLSA offices and urged educational institutions to organise legal awareness programmes.
Sub-Inspector R. Lyngdoh, Second Officer-in-Charge of Mawkyrwat Police Station, spoke about suicide prevention, stressing the importance of recognising warning signs and supporting people at risk. He also underlined the need to help families and communities affected by suicide. Students from St. Anthony’s College performed a skit titled “A Hand Before the Fall”, followed by songs and other activities. A walkathon was also organised to take the mental health awareness message into the wider community.
The programme was chaired by Dr Porsara Mesha J. Kharbih, Assistant Professor in the college’s Psychology Department. Clinical Psychologist A. Lyngkhei delivered the welcome address, while B. Lyngdoh proposed the vote of thanks.
