Interactive Session on “Mental Health Awareness”

CONVERSATION AND TIPS ON MENTAL HEALTH MANAGEMENT INTERACTIVE SESSION ON “MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS”  

Objective/ aim/ purpose:

  • Raise awareness about the importance of mental health.
  • Discuss common mental health issues and their impact on daily life.
  • Provide strategies for managing stress and improving mental well-being.
  • Encourage an open dialogue about mental health to reduce stigma.

N.C.C. unit in association with T & P Cell of the institute organised an interactive session on “Mental Health Awareness” for its staff members on dated 24.05.2024 (Friday) from 11.00 am to 12.00 O’clock at New auditorium of the institute.

The session was conducted by Dr. Pratibha Sharma, a renowned psychologist known for her expertise in mental health. The session was attended by 49 staff members. The auditorium was filled with eager participants, highlighting the growing interest and importance of mental health topics in the community. The programme was also attended by Dr. Shailja Pant- Principal, Mr. V. K. Nagpal- Director along with Dr. Shruti Sharma- Coordinator I.Q.A.C., ANO- NCC Lt. Rohit Maithani, Sr. Admin Officer Mr. Sudhir Bharti and Mr. Vijay Ratna Panwar- Placement Officer.

Dr. Sharma addressed common mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress. She used real-life examples and statistics to illustrate the prevalence and impact of these conditions.

The session provided practical strategies for managing stress and anxiety, such as mindfulness techniques, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Sharma also discussed the importance of seeking professional help when needed.

The latter part of the session was dedicated to an interactive question-and-answer segment. Participants asked insightful questions about dealing with specific mental health challenges, how to support friends and family members, and the role of mental health in academic and professional success.

 Dr. Sharma concluded the session by summarizing key points and encouraging attendees prioritize their mental health. She reiterated the importance of open conversations about mental health to break down stigma and promote a supportive community.

The session received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the participants. Many appreciated the opportunity to learn from Dr. Sharma and expressed a desire for more such sessions in the future. The interactive nature of the session was particularly praised, as it allowed for personal engagement and tailored advice.

Mission of the Eco-Club

The Dolphin Institute’s Eco-Club spearheads the “Go Green initiative” to cultivate student interest in environmental issues and encourage active participation in environmental conservation efforts. The club focuses on environmental education, direct conservation activities, and promoting good practices like plastic reduction, proper waste disposal, and tree plantation.

World Environment Day Activities (June 5th, 2023)

This year’s theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution,” was the cornerstone of the institute’s World Environment Day celebrations, organized by the Eco-Club. A range of activities were held:

  • Cleanliness Drive: The NSS Unit organized a cleanliness drive from the institute premises to Manduwala Chowk, followed by a street play (Nukkad Natak) in Dolphin Ground. Dr. Manoj Bainsala and Dr. Richa Agarwal coordinated these activities.
  • Environmental Pledge: To foster environmental awareness among students, all members of the Dolphin Institute took the “Lifestyle for the Environment Pledge” in Dolphin Ground. Dr. Deepali Rana and Dr. Rashmi Chamoli led the oath-taking ceremony.
  • Tree Plantation: A tree plantation activity was held to mark the occasion.

Raising Student Awareness

Several initiatives were undertaken to raise student awareness about environmental issues:

  • Interdepartmental Poster Competition: Students from all departments participated in a poster competition on the theme “Solutions to Plastic Pollution.” The winning posters were displayed in the reception area. Dr. A.K. Uniyal provided historical context on Environment Day celebrations, followed by an inaugural speech by Principal Dr. Shailja Pant after the lamp-lighting ceremony.
  • Environmental Quiz: Dr. Sas Biswas, Head of the Department of Forestry, conducted an interactive quiz with visuals, followed by an interdepartmental digital presentation competition on the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution.”

Award Ceremony

Winners of the competitions were felicitated by Principal Dr. Shailja Pant, Dean Shri. Vipul Garg, and Coordinator IQAC, Dr. Shruti Sharma.

  • Poster Competition Winners:
    • 1st Prize: Mohit (Department of Physiotherapy)
    • 2nd Prize (tie): Budata Taniya (Department of Pathology) & Anjali (Department of Pathology)
    • 3rd Prize: Vedika Negi & Charanpreet Kaur (Department of Biotechnology)
    • Consolation Prize: Hissay Dorjee Bhutai & Manisha (Department of Botany)
  • Quiz Competition Winners:
    • 1st Prize: Tarun (Department of Pathology)
    • 2nd Prize (tie): Nikita (Department of Agriculture) & Vishwendra (Department of Forestry)
    • 3rd Prize: Alok Ranjan (Department of Agriculture)
  • Digital Presentation Winners:
    • 1st Prize: Ashwin & Ashwini (Department of Forestry)
    • 2nd Prize: Kabari Krishna Borah (Department of Biotechnology)
    • 3rd Prize: M. Sachidanand (Department of Physics)

Plant Distribution and Conclusion

To commemorate World Environment Day, Dr. Sandhya Goswami and Dr. Manish distributed plants to various NGOs. Around 250 participants attended the informative program, which concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. A. K. Pundir.