JU students stage Nukkad Natak to raise Mental Health Awareness at Maternity and Child Hospital, Gandhi Nagar

In observance of World Mental Health Day, celebrated annually on October 10, the Department of Psychology  University of Jammu, under the guidance of Prof. Sangita Gupta, Head  Department of Psychology and Dean Social Sciences, hosted Mental Health Week. The initiative aimed to educate the public about the importance of mental health and the value of counseling services. This year's theme for World Mental Health Day, ‘Mental Health at Work,’ highlighted how the workplace can profoundly affect mental well-being. While work can offer a sense of purpose, self-worth, and social connection, it can also be a source of stress and anxiety, contributing to mental health issues.

As part of this awareness campaign, the students of the Department of Psychology performed a compelling Nukkad Natak at the Maternity and Child Hospital, Gandhi Nagar, and at the Outpatient Department of Govt. Hospital, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu. The event was coordinated by Dr. Sarita Sood, Assistant Professor, and supervised by faculty members of the department, centered on the theme ‘Open Minds, Open Hearts.’ It aimed to educate hospital staff, patients, and the public about mental health, the prevention of mental health disorders, and the importance of seeking professional help.

Through their powerful performance, the students emphasized the need to prioritize mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding it. They conveyed how open conversations about mental well-being can dispel myths, encourage individuals to seek support, and build a sense of community. The engaging mix of entertainment and education attracted a large audience, successfully highlighting the shared responsibility of maintaining mental health.

On the occasion, Dr. Arun Sharma, Medical Superintendent of Maternity & Child Hospital, Gandhi Nagar; Dr. Hamid Zargar, Medical Superintendent of Govt. Hospital, Gandhi Nagar; Dr. Balvinder Singh, Deputy Medical Superintendent; Dr. Megha Sharma, Medical Officer; Ms. Bhanupriya, Counselor; and Dr. Ruchi Sasan, Psychiatric Social Worker were also present.