Sikkim: Awareness programme on adolescent health, AYUSH system and mental health held in Soreng

A one-day awareness programme on Adolescent Health, the AYUSH system, and Mental Health was organized today at the Rurban Complex in Soreng. The event, held under the National AYUSH Mission and the Health and Family Welfare Department also highlighted various services under the Sikkim INSPIRES initiative.

The programme was attended by several officials and dignitaries, including Panchayat members, Gaayas Pega (ADC Development), Nitup Doma Bhutia (Under Secretary), K.B. Subba (Deputy Director, ADC Development Office), Dr. Nerolene Subba (MOIC, Soreng), Dr. Roshma Thapa (Homeopathy), Ringku Rai (Mental Health Counsellor), Yamuna Dhungel (Adolescent Health Counsellor), Darshika Sharma (Yoga Instructor) and L.B. Tamang (Health Educator). Officials from SDZP and BAC Soreng were also present.

Dr. Karma Chaden Bhutia, Additional Director cum State Nodal Officer for Adolescent Health & National AYUSH Mission, delivered a detailed presentation on the importance of AYUSH in public health. She discussed the outreach efforts being made to address school mental health concerns and adolescent health issues in Sikkim. Dr. Bhutia highlighted critical concerns such as teenage pregnancies, anemia, high suicide rates, and substance abuse, which are reported to be above the national average. She also spoke about health services available in schools through programs like RBSK and RKSK, which focus on health promotion, screening, and service provision. She emphasized that community involvement plays a key role in addressing these challenges.

Dr. Chadani Chettri, Medical Officer (Ayurveda, 50-Bedded AYUSH Hospital, Gyalshing District), provided insights into Ayurveda and its role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She explained principles like Dinacharya (daily routine) and Ritucharya (seasonal regimen) and how they contribute to overall well-being.

Roshnila Gurung, Assistant Director cum E&S Development Officer spoke about Sikkim INSPIRES and its focus on economic opportunities for women and youth. She cited examples of initiatives, such as an overseas placement program for nurses in Germany, facilitated by the Skills Development Department.

Dr. Sonam O. Lassopa, Senior Clinical Psychologist cum Nodal Officer, outlined mental health initiatives under Sikkim INSPIRES. She discussed steps being taken to enhance mental health service delivery, including capacity building for health professionals and community interventions to prevent suicides. A pilot project for suicide prevention will be launched in Namchi District before being expanded statewide.

The programme also highlighted strengthening Adolescent Friendly Health Clinics and promoting life skills education in schools. Under the Rashtriya Kishor Suraksha Karyakram, teachers will conduct sessions on health, nutrition, peer pressure, stress management and substance abuse.

Moreover, Dr. Lassopa highlighted the upgradation of the SWASTH MAAN application, which offers mental health screening and resources. She also informed attendees about Tele MANAS, a tele-mental health service under the National Mental Health Program, which provides round-the-clock support for individuals facing mental health challenges. People in need of assistance can dial 1800-891-14416 or 14416 to speak with trained counsellors 24/7, with senior consultant psychiatrists available for consultations on weekdays.

Dr. Sumiran Tamang, Medical Officer (Yoga and Naturopathy), focused on the rising cases of communicable and non-communicable diseases in Sikkim. He addressed key health concerns, including substance abuse and alcohol dependency, and discussed interventions to tackle these issues through a holistic approach.

The awareness programme provided valuable insights into adolescent health, mental well-being, and AYUSH-based healthcare solutions.