Union Minister Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar Inaugurates National Conference on Mental Health Beyond Institutions
Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar, graced the National Conference on ‘Moving Mental Health Beyond Institutions’ with her presence. The conference, which aimed to discuss the implementation challenges of the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, was also attended by Justice Arun Mishra, Hon’ble Chairperson of NHRC. Dr. Pawar emphasized that mental health is a vital aspect of overall well-being and urged for the elimination of the stigma surrounding it, encouraging individuals to seek the help they need without hesitation.
Empathy, Integration, and Raising Awareness
Justice Arun Mishra, in his address, highlighted the need for empathy and integration in mental healthcare. He stressed that mental health should receive the same importance as physical health, calling for coordinated efforts across healthcare, education, public policy, and social support systems. Justice Mishra also advocated for mental health education integration in schools, colleges, and workplaces and emphasized the importance of setting boundaries with social media.
Focus on Community-Based Support and Infrastructure
Dr. Pawar emphasized the need for a new mental healthcare paradigm that goes beyond traditional institutions and focuses on community-based support. She urged the dignitaries present to work towards an accessible, affordable, inclusive, and compassionate mental healthcare system. Justice Mishra pointed out the need for allocating more resources to mental health services and research and the importance of proper infrastructure in mental health institutions.
