Commemorating the ‘World Mental Health Day’, the State Mental Health Institute Kohima (SMHIK) – a premier mental hospital in Nagaland, today organized a programme based on the theme “Make mental health and well-being for all a global priority”.

Addressing the gathering, the senior medical officer of the institute – Dr. Viketoulie Pienyu noted that mental illness causes laziness, restlessness, irritation, and zero productivity.

Stressing the need to tackle the stigma and discrimination against those experiencing mental illness, he added that it would encourage the affected ones to open-up, so that the illness can be cured.

Dr. Pienyu expressed satisfaction that the leaders are realizing the need for mentally-healthy citizens, due to which the centre has listed mental health among the top 10 priorities of the government.

“One must learn to preserve one’s mental health as it is very important to have a productive and healthy life,” he said while stressing the need to have 7-8 hours of proper sleep, regular exercise, socializing, and spending time with family.

He also discouraged people from indulging in substance abuse. Besides, the Medical Superintendent of SMHIK – Dr Khriesilie Sachü asserted that too much depression and anxiety may also cause mental illness; and therefore, requested those facing such challenges to seek immediate counselling and treatment.