Srinagar October 10 (KNS): World Mental Health Day 2025 was commemorated today at the Aaghaz Drug De-Addiction and Rehabilitation Centre, Bagh-e-Mehtab, Srinagar, with a focus on collaboration, awareness, and accessibility in addressing mental health challenges in Jammu and Kashmir.
The event was attended by psychiatrists, police officers, physicians, social activists, counsellors, religious scholars, civil society members, and families of recovered patients. Senior Superintendent of Police (Crime Branch) Abdul Wahid was the chief guest on the occasion.
In his address, Abdul Wahid underlined the need to merge resources and create a common platform to address mental health and addiction-related issues comprehensively. He appreciated the crucial role being played by NGOs and social organizations in providing care and support to the community, particularly during crises and disasters.
Dr. Majid Shafi highlighted various government initiatives aimed at strengthening mental health services in the region and encouraged participants to avail themselves of the facilities available at major hospitals. He revealed that around 40 percent of the population is affected by psychosocial problems, including stress and anxiety, and called for expanding options for mental health care and support.
Dr. Hamidullah Shah, one of Jammu and Kashmir’s senior-most psychiatrists, emphasized the urgent need to create more awareness and make mental health facilities accessible across both urban and rural areas.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Chairman of HPVT, Farooq Ahmad, stressed on resource sharing and making medication affordable for those battling mental illness and substance dependence.
Dr. Sarosh spoke on the medical challenges associated with drug addiction, calling for more rigorous screening and early intervention strategies for patients showing signs of substance abuse.
Senior clinical psychologist Dr. Muzafer pointed to the wide gap between available mental health services and the actual needs of society, urging collective efforts from government institutions and civil society to bridge this divide.
A highlight of the event was a special felicitation ceremony recognizing the families of recovered patients for their resilience and support in helping their loved ones recover from addiction and mental health struggles.
During the ceremony, Dr. Maqbool, Dr. Majid Shafi, and Yasir Arafat were honoured for their leadership and outstanding contribution to the field of mental health in Jammu and Kashmir.
The event concluded with a pledge to continue strengthening mental health awareness, prevention, and rehabilitation efforts, ensuring that no individual suffers in silence due to stigma or lack of services.(KNS)