Mysore/Mysuru: Mental health is key factor for overall well-being and prosperity. The National Mental Health Survey (NMHS) 2015-16 reveals that 15% of India’s adult population experiences mental health issues requiring intervention. In all, 70% to 92% of people with mental disorders do not receive proper treatment due to lack of awareness, stigma and shortage of professionals. The economic loss due to mental health conditions, between 2012-2030, is estimated at USD 1.03 trillion.

In this regard, there is urgent need to engage all stakeholders in educational institutions and public for creating awareness. Hence, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, JSS Medical College, Department of Psychiatry, has launched two unique programmes, one is successfully running ‘Primary care volunteer for psychiatric services’ and second, based on popular demand ‘Psychological First Aid in Kannada.’

This is first of its kind from any Medical College Hospital in India, where programme is delivered in vernacular language.

These programmes are open for public for anyone who holds Pre-University certificate and above, any age group.

Since it has nominal fee and delivered online in a live mode, certificate course is convenient for all interested.

To launch the Kannada version, a programme has been organised at Sri Rajendra Centenary Auditorium, JSS Hospital premises, Mysuru, on Jan. 6 at 2.15 pm.

Dr. C.R. Chandrashekar, Padma Shri awardee and former Professor of Psychiatry (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, Samadhana Counselling Trust Centre, will preside over the programme.

Dr. B.N. Gangadhar, Padma Shri awardee and former Chairman, National Medical Commission (NMC) and Professor of Psychiatry and former Director, NIMHANS, Bangaluru and Dr. Sunanda Kulkarni, Senior Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Chinmaya Mission Hospital, Bengaluru and well-known author in Kannada Medical Literature, will be the guests of honour.

For details, contact Dr. Pradeep on Mob: 99642-23388, according to a press release.