Odisha govt to develop strategy to deal with mental health concerns
Odisha govt to develop strategy to deal with mental health concerns
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Bhubaneswar: To address rising incidences of mental illness and suicide, the Odisha government would draught an outline plan for early screening and prompt intervention at healthcare facilities.
The decision was made at a two-day regional workshop on 'Emerging Trends in Suicide Prevention' conducted at the Centre of Excellence (CoE), Mental Health Institute, SCB Medical College and Hospital, according to sources (SCBMCH).
Identifying persons on the edge of suicide is the most effective intervention strategy. It is feasible with the participation of family, friends, and community members, stated Niranjan Mishra, Director of Public Health, at the session.
Several health experts from the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), medical colleges and hospitals, WHO country representatives, state government officials, the National Health Mission, and representatives from various related departments attended the workshop and contributed to the outline.
"All connected departments will be involved in establishing the framework for giving care and support to prevent suicide in the community," Mishra added.
The framework will be developed to increase awareness of mental illness indications and symptoms, restrict access to hazardous materials and firearms, and build support systems for people, families, workplaces, schools, and colleges through support and inter-sectoral cooperation.
"The Odisha government's intervention for mental health during Covid is exemplary," TNIE quoted NIMHANS director Pratima Murthy as saying, adding that other governments should follow suit.
It is worth noting that approximately 30 high school and higher secondary school teachers are currently being educated under 'Strategic Intervention for Suicide Prevention,' a short-term course designed by SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack, to prevent student suicide.
The training started on November 1 and will continue every Tuesday until November 29. After that, they will evaluate vulnerable high school and college students for substance misuse, behavioural disorders, and personality disorders, which may be a forerunner to suicide tendencies among the students.
Odisha Digital Academy for Mental Health is delivering the training on behalf of the Mental Health Institute, SCBMCH.
