Suhail Rather

Bandipora, Oct 12 (KNS): Clinical psychologist Shazana Anjum on Monday stressed the importance of listening to people experiencing emotional distress and ensuring timely access to professional mental healthcare, as AMNT Nursing College in Bandipora organised an awareness programme to mark World Mental Health Day.

The programme, held under the theme “Lived Experiences: Heard, Real Voice, Real Change”, focused on reducing stigma surrounding mental health, encouraging open conversations and helping students recognise emotional and psychological challenges.

According to details received by news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS), Anjum spent the day interacting with students and listening to their experiences, concerns and difficulties, providing them an opportunity to discuss mental health issues in a supportive environment.

She said listening without judgement and acknowledging individual experiences were essential to understanding emotional distress, particularly among students dealing with academic pressure and personal challenges.

Highlighting the Government of India's national tele-mental health initiative, Tele-MANAS, Anjum said the service provides access to counselling, professional guidance and referrals for further care where necessary.

She said the initiative could help people seek assistance without initially visiting a healthcare facility, particularly those reluctant to approach mental health professionals because of social stigma, geographical barriers or limited awareness.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Anjum also emphasised the need to recognise early signs of psychological distress, including persistent stress and anxiety, and seek professional intervention before such difficulties worsen.

Originally from Kupwara and professionally based in Sopore, Anjum is associated with community outreach and emotional wellness initiatives through Shazana Holistic Therapy. Her work focuses on emotional awareness, self-understanding, women's emotional wellbeing and encouraging discussions around mental health.

The programme also highlighted the role of educational institutions in creating supportive environments where students feel comfortable discussing emotional difficulties and seeking assistance.

Participants stressed that mental health awareness should not remain confined to annual observances but should translate into sustained efforts to reduce stigma, promote empathy and improve access to professional support.

The event concluded with an emphasis on treating mental health with the same seriousness as physical health and ensuring that individuals experiencing emotional difficulties receive understanding and appropriate care.

People seeking mental health counselling and support can contact the national Tele-MANAS helpline on 14416 or 1-800-891-4416. (KNS)