Minister G.T. Dhungel urges collective efforts for mental health awareness at Sikkim INSPIRES event

Minister G.T. Dhungel attended the important “Sikkim INSPIRES” program held at Chintan Bhawan in Gangtok on Monday. The event focused on the Sikkim Integrated Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Strategy and brought attention to a growing concern in the state—rising suicide rates.

The program saw participation from mental health professionals, government officials, policy experts, and social workers. Together, they discussed ways to improve mental health support in the state and how to prevent suicide through awareness, early intervention, and community support.

Minister Dhungel shared his thoughts during the event and praised the initiative as a much-needed effort in today’s time. “This initiative is a much-needed step towards breaking the silence around mental health,” he said. “By integrating support systems and driving awareness, we can create a culture of care and understanding in Sikkim.”

He emphasized the importance of open discussions about mental health and said that no one should feel alone or ashamed for seeking help. The Minister also appreciated the role played by various experts and organizations who are working hard to make mental health a part of public conversation.

Throughout the event, speakers shared data, stories, and suggestions that highlighted how urgent and serious the issue has become in Sikkim. They stressed that suicide prevention is not just a government responsibility but something that requires support from all sectors of society—families, schools, workplaces, and communities.

Minister Dhungel ended his remarks with a strong message of unity. He said that tackling mental health challenges will need cooperation at every level, and that only by working together can the stigma around mental illness and suicide be removed. He encouraged everyone present to continue spreading awareness and offering support to those in need.