On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, the students of the College of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Bhimtal, organized an impactful awareness program in a nearby village Gobirakhan, Doshal (Bhimtal) to educate the villagers on the significance of mental health. The initiative aimed to educate villagers on the significance of mental health through a Nukkad Natak, which highlighted common issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress. A crucial message conveyed through the play was the harmful reliance on superstitious practices like “jhar fuk”, which many villagers still follow, rather than seeking professional medical help.
A notable feature of the event was the participation of local women from the village, who actively took part in the discussions following the performance. The students also gave information about basic mental health tips and contact details for local mental health services. They encouraged the villagers to seek professional help if they or someone they know is struggling with mental health issues. The interaction between the students and villagers allowed for open dialogue, and the students made efforts to dispel myths and misconceptions about mental health diseases.Dr. Sunita Waila Tiwari and Mrs. Mamta Joshi played a pivotal role in guiding the students throughout the program.