Organised by the Department of Psychiatry, KVG Medical College & Hospital, Sullia Date: 14th October 2025 | Venue: OPD Entrance | Time: 10:30 AM

The Department of Psychiatry, KVG Medical College & Hospital, Sullia, organized a program to commemorate World Mental Health Day on 14th October 2025 at the OPD entrance. The event aimed to promote awareness and understanding of mental health under this year’s theme, “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”

The programme commenced with a prayer song delivered by Ms. Renuka, 4th-year B.Sc Nursing student, followed by a welcome address by Dr. Amritha Ajay, Senior Resident, Department of Psychiatry. The inaugural ceremony included the lighting of the lamp by dignitaries, symbolizing the spread of knowledge and hope.

The event was graced by the presence of Dr. K. V. Chidananda, Medical Director; Dr. Neelambika Natarajan, Dean; and Dr. T. Sudhakar Bhat, Senior Psychiatrist, Chief guest.

Following the inaugural address by the Dean, Dr. Poonam M, Professor and Head of the Department of Psychiatry, delivered a keynote address elaborating on the theme, emphasizing the importance of timely mental health interventions during crises and ensuring rightful access to mental health services.

The academic sessions were interspersed with two engaging skit performances by students, creatively depicting awareness about mental illness and the significance of seeking help. Subsequently, Dr. Rashmi K, Assistant Professor, delivered an insightful talk on common mental illnesses, their identification, and management at the community level.

An introduction of Dr. T. Sudhakar Bhat was presented by Ms. Namratha, Psychologist, following which Dr. Bhat addressed the audience, sharing valuable perspectives from his extensive clinical experience. A felicitation ceremony was held in his honor, acknowledging his contributions to the field of psychiatry.

The following, prize distribution ceremony, honored the winners of the quiz, poster making, Pandora’s Box, and reel making competitions held during Mental Health Week, further enhancing the festive atmosphere and demonstrating the eager participation of faculty, staff, and students from various academic fields.

The event concluded with a presidential address by Dr. K. V. Chidananda, who commended the Department of Psychiatry for their initiatives in spreading mental health awareness. The formal vote of thanks was proposed by Ms. Anushree, Psychologist, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, faculty, students, and participants.

The programme was emceed by Dr. Abhijna B. R. and Dr. Vidya Nittur, 1st-year Postgraduate students, and was well-attended by faculty, students, and hospital staff, contributing to a meaningful observance of World Mental Health Day.