Oriental College Kohima, in collaboration with the District Mental Health Program (DMHP), NHAK Kohima, observed World Mental Health Day with the theme “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”
The resource person for the event was Ruokuotuo Rutsa, Clinical Psychologist, DMHP, Naga Hospital Authority, Kohima. The programme was chaired by Kevizo Miasalhou, BA 3rd semester student, and began with an invocation by Aboli Chikhe, Assistant Professor, Department of History. The welcome address was delivered by Dr. Kevizakielie Suokhrie, Vice Principal (Academics). A special performance was presented by Lendongrenla, BA 5th semester student, and the vote of thanks was proposed by Akhrienuo Chietsu.
In her address, Ruokuotuo Rutsa emphasised the importance of mental health, stating that mental health is not a choice and can happen to anyone. She highlighted the need to strengthen support systems to help people cope during and after emergencies. She assured the audience that mental health support is readily available in the state and encouraged reaching out to those in need. She added that by providing support and accessing mental health services, communities can build resilience, foster recovery, and strengthen the ability of people to heal and rebuild even after a crisis.
