‘Collaborative efforts key to addressing mental health issues in Kashmir’

Srinagar, Oct 10: In a bid to spread awareness about mental health and related issues, the South Asia Centre for Peace and Peoples Empowerment (SACPPE) observed World Mental Health Day in the city center here. The organisers stated that the aim of the event was to raise awareness about the increasing mental health issues in the valley.

They expressed their desire to highlight the importance of collaborative efforts through awareness programs.

S Umar Bhat, president of SACPPE, stated that collaboration will be crucial in addressing mental health and drug abuse issues in J&K.

“Today is Mental Health Day, and there is no better time to raise awareness about these issues than today. In addition to this, our organization continuously organizes awareness programs and workshops in schools and local communities. Our team of counselors, experts, psychologists, and researchers is actively working to address these issues at the ground level in collaboration with various government and non-government organizations,” Bhat said.

He emphasized that drug abuse and mental health are closely related, and they aim to contribute to addressing the issue. “In today’s event, our focus is on preventive measures and reaching out to those who are struggling. We have seen a rise in suicide cases in Kashmir, which is alarming. We need to work at the grassroots level with youth, especially in educational institutions where they spend most of their time,” Bhat said.

The event featured the distribution of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials, along with counseling sessions aimed at raising awareness about mental health and its connection to substance abuse. Many young participants engaged in the event and shared their perspectives.

“Amid drug abuse, joblessness, and decades of uncertainty in Kashmir, mental health has suffered. Such events are important to break the stigma and foster collaboration on this issue,” a young participant said.

Numerous social activists, volunteers, and individuals from various fields attended the event. Mubashir Bukhari, SP East City, was the chief guest and emphasized the importance of mental health awareness while distributing IEC materials during the event.