Srinagar, Oct 8: As part of the ongoing observance of Mental Health Week (4th–10th October 2025), the Department of Psychiatry, Advanced Centre for Mental Health & Addiction Medicine, SKIMS Medical College today organised an Awareness Programme-cum-Workshop in collaboration with the Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK).
The event brought together teachers, counsellors, and psychologists from schools across the Kashmir Division, who interacted with mental health experts during various interactive sessions.
The Principal, SKIMS Medical College, Prof. Fazalul Qadir Parray, inaugurated the day-long workshop. In his address, he highlighted the vital role of teachers as the first point of contact in identifying and addressing mental health issues among students. He emphasised that educators can play a transformative role in dispelling myths and removing stigma surrounding psychiatric illnesses.
Prof. Abdul Maajid, Head of the Department of Psychiatry and Sub-Dean SKIMS Medical College, spoke on the various factors contributing to mental health challenges, particularly during emergencies and disasters. He underscored the importance of early detection and timely referral to nearby mental health services. Dr Farhana Ahad, Head of the Department of Physiology, also addressed the participants.
The workshop was structured around the World Mental Health Day 2025 theme, “Access to Services: Mental Health in Emergencies and Catastrophes.” Discussions focused on empowering teachers as first responders who can identify early warning signs and facilitate timely interventions for students in distress.
During the technical sessions, Dr Nizam Ud Din, Assistant Professor, Psychiatry, made a detailed presentation on behavioural issues among children and adolescents. Dr Farhana Rafiq and Dr Muntaqeem, Senior Residents, discussed disorders such as ADHD, Autism, and other common psychiatric conditions in the child population. Dr Masood Maqbool, Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology, along with Ms Rafia, Ms Nighat, and Ms Gousia, Clinical Psychologists, and Dr Mir Masood, Resident Psychiatrist, also delivered insightful presentations.
In his concluding remarks, Prof. Maajid, along with Dr Masood Maqbool, expressed gratitude to Dr G. N. Itoo, Director General of School Education, Kashmir, and Mr Syed Shabir Ahmad, Joint Director of School Education, for their collaboration and support. Special appreciation was extended to all participating teachers, counsellors, and psychologists from across the Kashmir Division for making the program a success.
The event was coordinated by Dr Shagun Saini, Resident Psychiatrist, who also delivered the formal vote of thanks.
