Sikkim advances mental health initiatives with strategic collaborations

To address mental health challenges and reduce suicide rates, the Health & Family Welfare Department of Sikkim organized a comprehensive stakeholder consultation under the banner of Sikkim INSPIRES. The initiative engaged government officials, civil society members, and individuals with lived experiences in a participatory process aimed at developing localized mental health strategies.

The consultation workshop, held in collaboration with the Center for Mental Health Law & Policy (CMHLP) at Pune and Ahmedabad, provided a platform for key stakeholders, including Panchayat members, educators, health officials, and youth representatives. Discussions revolved around creating a roadmap for mental health and suicide prevention, informed by evidence-based interventions and global best practices like the ATMIYATA program, recognized by the World Health Organization.

A series of field visits to Gujarat offered hands-on learning opportunities about community-led mental health initiatives. Stakeholders interacted with program implementers and beneficiaries, gaining insights into challenges and successes in community-based mental health services.

The initiative extended to national institutions, including Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) and NIMHANS, Bangalore. Discussions with experts at these institutes explored technical support, policy frameworks, and innovative programs like School Initiatives for Mental Health Advocacy (SIMHA) and telemedicine services under Tele-MANAS.