World Mental Health Day Celebrations at Recep Tayyip Erdogan Hospital, Muzaffargarh:

In a vibrant display of solidarity and awareness, Recep Tayyip Erdogan Hospital Muzaffargarh recently hosted a seminar /awareness walk to mark World Mental Health Day. The event, organized by the hospital’s Mental Health Department, aimed to shed light on the significance of mental health as a fundamental human right. The primary objective was to raise awareness about mental health issues arising from prevailing socio-economic conditions and to provide solutions.

Clinical psychologist Shaista Almas addressed the attendees, emphasizing how the current economic and societal challenges put immense mental pressure on individuals. Such pressures often lead to severe stress and, subsequently, wrong decisions. She urged anyone struggling with these issues to seek help promptly, emphasizing the presence of mental health counselors at the hospital. Shaista Almas highlighted the emergence of mental disorders due to the discriminatory treatment faced by individuals afflicted with various illnesses. She stressed the importance of positive dialogue and counseling, underlining that open discussions could help patients immensely.

Waqar Ahmed, Head of Operations, also spoke at the event, pointing out that the social and economic conditions prevalent in society have caused distress for everyone. However, he emphasized that through positive conversations and mutual consultation, both patients and their care givers could cope better. He further highlighted an alarming trend where individuals in workplaces, offices, hospitals, and other institutions tend to vent their personal frustrations onto their colleagues. This, he noted, only exacerbates mental stress for everyone involved. He urged for tolerance, patience, and understanding. He advocated for addressing problems through dialogue and positive advice rather than responding to anger with anger.

To spread awareness effectively, a rally was organized, complete with informative stalls that educated patients about mental health disorders. The stalls provided valuable information, aiming to dispel negative attitude towards others, and encourage open conversations around mental health.

Dr. Mubashir Khan, Dr. Sohail Khalid, Dr. Nadeem Sohail, Usama Riaz Admin Manager, Deputy Manager Administration Shakil Ahmad & Syed Kashif, IT HOD Syed Tariq, NFSD Manager Raja Ghulam Murtaza, Shahid Nadeem and other staff participated in the event.

The World Mental Health Day celebration at Recep Tayyip Erdogan Hospital, Muzaffargarh, served as a beacon of hope. By fostering an atmosphere of understanding, tolerance, and support, the event highlighted the significance of mental health, encouraging individuals to seek help and support, thus paving the way for a healthier, more compassionate society.