 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Oct 10: Rajiv Gandhi College of Nursing (RGCN), Jammu, organised a workshop to observe World Mental Health Day 2026, bringing together nursing students, faculty members and distinguished resource persons to promote awareness about mental health, psychological resilience, active listening and compassionate healthcare.
The programme aimed to encourage students to recognise the importance of mental well-being and understand how empathy, effective communication and timely support can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
The workshop was graced by Mr. M. S. Katoch, Chairman, RGCN; Mr. Abimanyu Katoch, Managing Director, RGCN; and Ms. Anjana Bavouria, Director, RGCN and Prof. Tariq Ahmad Vice Principal RGCN. The occasion was further enriched by the presence of Chief Guest Dr. Jagdish Raj Thapa Former Professor and HOD, Department of Psychiatry, Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu, Mrs. Darpreet Kour Gandotra, Assistant Director, CARE North as Guest of Honor, Miss Shikha Bhandari, Associate Professor, ASCOMS as Resource Person, Miss Ocean Tikku, Assistant Professor, Stephen College of Nursing along with faculty members and students.
The programme commenced with the inaugural session, followed by bouquet presentation, lamp lighting and Ganesh Vandana. Ms. Anjana Bavouria, Director, RGCN, delivered the welcome address and warmly welcomed the dignitaries, speakers and students. She highlighted the importance of promoting mental health awareness and fostering a supportive environment where individuals can seek help without fear of stigma or discrimination.
The highlight of the inaugural proceedings was the theme opening by Chief Guest Dr. Jagdish Raj Thapa Former Professor and HOD, Department of Psychiatry, Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu. His presence added academic significance to the occasion and reinforced the importance of understanding mental health concerns with sensitivity, reducing stigma and encouraging timely professional support.
The academic sessions formed the core of the workshop. Mrs. Darpreet Kour Gandotra, Assistant Director, CARE North, delivered a session titled "Bridging Medical Diagnosis and Lived Patient Realities," highlighting the importance of understanding patients beyond their diagnoses and recognising their individual experiences, emotions and care needs. |
