“Science Club, Utsaah Spreads Awareness about Mental Health at the Workplace on World Mental Health Day”

The Science Club, Utsaah, in collaboration with the Skill Innovation Incubation & Entrepreneurship Development Centre (SIIEDC), University of Jammu, hosted a special event today to commemorate World Mental Health Day on 10^th October 2024. The theme for this year, “Mental Health at the Workplace,” was at the forefront of discussions aimed at raising awareness about mental well-being and fostering supportive workplace environments. The World Federation for Mental Health launched the effort to observe on 10^th October for the first time in 1992.

Prof. Alka Sharma, Dean of Business Studies and Director of SIIEDC, congratulated and encouraged such programs and its need in today’s fast-paced work environments, the need to address mental health is more critical than ever.

World Health Organization is joining forces with partners to emphasize the critical link between mental health and employment on this World Mental Health Day. Workplaces that are safe and healthful can also protect mental wellness. Unhealthy environments can have serious consequences, impacting mental health, general quality of life, and ultimately participation or productivity at work. These include stigma, discrimination, exposure to hazards like harassment, and other unfavourable working conditions.

The event was conducted by Dr Chinmoyee Maharana, Coordinator, Science Club, Utsaah, University of Jammu for spreading awareness among youth who are the future of tomorrow regarding importance of mental health and holistic growth. She gave examples from diverse fields shared insights on the impact of mental health on workplace dynamics. Further emphasized the need for building resilience, encouraging open conversations about mental health challenges, and implementing workplace policies that promote well-being and prevent burnout. Event was well perceived by the participants, who took part enthusiastically in the discussion, and understood the need to prioritize mental health in their professional and personal lives, fostering a more empathetic and supportive workplace culture.