“ACCESS TO SERVICES”

The Green Dot Trust, Mysuru, in coordination with the Department of PG Studies and Research in Social Work, St. Philomena’s College (Autonomous), Mysuru, and in association with the District Legal Services Authority, Mysuru, supported by NR Foundation, Mysuru, jointly organized a One-Day National Seminar on “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies” on 14th October 2025, to mark the occasion of World Mental Health Day – 2025.

The event was inaugurated by Sri. Amarnath K.K., Honorable Senior Civil Judge and Member Secretary, District Legal Services Authority, Mysuru. In his inaugural address, he emphasized the significance of the Mental Healthcare Act and the legal rights of individuals suffering from mental illnesses, focusing on key aspects such as access to care, community living, and protection against discrimination and abuse. He shed light on Articles 13, 14, and 16 of the Act, reinforcing the role of legal institutions in upholding mental health rights.

The seminar was graced by several distinguished guests. Chief guests included Dr. Ravi J.D. Saldanha, Principal, St. Philomena’s College, Sri. C.N. Chandan, 4th Additional Senior Civil Judge and JMFC, Dr. K.R. Dakshayani, Director and Dean, Mysuru Medical College & Research Institute, and Prof. R. Shivappa, Head, DoS in Social Work, University of Mysore. The programme was presided over by Rev. Dr. Lourdu Prasad Joseph, Rector & Manager of St. Philomena’s College. Dr. Kantharaju C.K., Secretary of Green Dot Trust, felicitated the dignitaries and resource persons.

In his address, Sri. C.N. Chandan stressed the urgent need to raise mental health awareness, particularly in rural communities where superstition often overshadows professional treatment. He shared a real-life account where he used his judicial powers to ensure treatment for a mentally ill person with the help of police and NIMHANS, Bengaluru. Rev. Dr. Lourdu Prasad Joseph, in his presidential remarks, urged academic institutions to become drivers of change and stressed the role of social workers in advancing mental health literacy.

The technical sessions that followed provided in-depth perspectives on various mental health issues relevant to emergencies and modern society.

The first session was delivered by Dr. Ravish B.N., Professor and Head, Psychiatry, K.R. Hospital, Mysuru. His talk focused on the psychological impact of disasters and emergencies. He elaborated on the phases of disaster response, common emotional and behavioral reactions, and the importance of evidence-based intervention strategies. He also emphasized healthy coping mechanisms and the significance of professional mental health support during and after catastrophes.

The second session, led by Prof. Chandramouli from the University of Mysore, explored the relationship between social media and mental health. He discussed the alarming screen time trends, effects of cyberbullying, interpersonal disconnect within families, and psychological issues such as OCD and ADHD triggered by excessive mobile usage. He recommended lifestyle changes including reduced screen time, outdoor activities, family bonding, and spiritual engagement as ways to enhance emotional well-being.

In the third session, Dr. Noor Mubasheer C.A., PG Coordinator and HoD, St. Philomena’s College, addressed the topic “Mental Health Literacy among Students and Faculty”. Using interactive activities, she encouraged students to assess their own mental health. She stressed the importance of early intervention, awareness of symptoms, and the use of self-help tools such as apps, support groups, and self-care routines. She highlighted the WHO’s definition of mental health and introduced the “Rule of 888” for balanced living.

The final session was conducted by Dr. VST Krishna, who spoke on “Mental Health: An Update – Psychological Hardiness and Resilience”. Through inspirational real-life stories, including that of Sreenath K., a former railway porter who became an IAS officer, and other tales of grit and determination, Dr. Krishna explained how resilience and mental toughness can overcome extreme adversity. His session emphasized the power of positive thinking, determination, and exploring new paths when conventional routes fail.

In conclusion, the seminar offered a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding mental health, especially during disasters and crises. It successfully integrated clinical, legal, social, and psychological perspectives. The event was a platform for future mental health professionals, educators, and legal experts to collaborate and advocate for better access to mental health services.

Over 200 participants from various colleges in Mysuru, from the University of Mysore, JSS Law College, Vidya Vikas, and Vidyavardhaka College, Sharadhavilas and the students of St. Philomena’s College (Autonomous) actively took part in the seminar.