Successful One-Day Orientation and Workshop on Mental Health and Tobacco Control.

Leh, June 12, 2024: The Medical Department organized a one-day orientation and workshop under the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) and National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) at the Conference Hall of the CMO Office on June 11.
The workshop began with a welcome speech by District Health Officer, Dr. Farhana Iqbal who welcomed all religious leaders and spoke on the importance of mental health and various community issues. She emphasized the community’s role in spreading awareness.
Psychiatrist & Drug De-addiction Specialist Consultant from SNM Hospital, Dr. Tashi Tundup, gave a presentation on “Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges: Uniting Communities for Mental Health.” He discussed the distinctions between physical and mental illnesses, the importance of community involvement, and the causes of mental disorders. His talk covered significant statistics, the differences between Severe Mental Disorders (SMD) and Common Mental Disorders (CMD), and the role of community leaders in promoting mental health awareness and support.
State Nodal Officer of NTCP, Dr. Rinchen Angmo and District Consultant, Dr. Stanzin Jamyang highlighted the rising threat of cancer to public health. They spoke about their ongoing work in various schools, informing participants about the impact and results of their initiatives.
President Anjuman Imamia, Ashraf Ali Barcha emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for better health outcomes.
State Nodal Officer for NMHP, Iqbal Ahmad addressed the participants, encouraging them to work together with the Health Department to address mental health issues in the community. He informed attendees about the availability of free counseling through Telemanas and acknowledged the contributions of community leaders (Goba) in spreading awareness, encouraging continued collaboration.
The event facilitated wide-ranging discussions among officials, officers, Gobas, and stakeholders, emphasizing the collective effort required to address mental health and tobacco control challenges effectively.
Officials included President Anjuman Imamia, Arshaf Ali Barcha; President Anjuman Mayinul Islam, Dr. Abdul Qayoom; religious leaders; District Health Officer, Dr. Farhana Iqbal; State Nodal Officer of NTCP, Dr. Rinchen Angmo and Gobas.