BCMCH Psychiatry Department Leads Vital Training for Teachers in Kerala

 

Breaking News: BCMCH Psychiatry Department Leads Vital Training for Teachers in Kerala

Introduction

In a significant move to address the pressing issue of adolescent mental health, the Department of Psychiatry at BCMCH was honored to be invited to lead a crucial training program for teachers from the Department of Education, Government of Kerala. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to combat substance abuse and reduce the high suicide rates among adolescents—a concerning issue given that suicide is the third leading cause of death among individuals aged 15-19.

Training Overview

The training, which took place recently, focused on equipping teachers with the skills and knowledge needed to identify behavioral changes in students and address mental health challenges effectively. With over 400 students involved in the sessions, the program aimed to establish Souhrida Clubs within schools—platforms designed to foster a supportive environment for students.

Objectives of the Training

  1. Empowering Teachers: The core objective was to empower teachers to recognize early signs of mental health issues and behavioral changes in adolescents. By doing so, they can provide timely intervention and support, potentially mitigating more severe issues such as substance abuse and suicidal ideation.

  2. Promoting Mental Health Awareness: Educators were trained to increase awareness about mental health challenges among students, helping to break the stigma associated with mental health issues and encourage a more open dialogue.

  3. Establishing Souhrida Clubs: These clubs are intended to create a safe and supportive environment where students can discuss their concerns and seek help. The Souhrida Clubs are a proactive approach to mental health, aiming to provide peer support and professional guidance.

  4. Reducing Substance Abuse and Suicide Rates: The training aligns with the Government of Kerala's broader goal of reducing substance abuse and suicide rates among adolescents by addressing these issues at their roots.

Key Contributors

Dr. Suman Varghese Sam, a prominent member of the BCMCH Psychiatry Department, played a pivotal role as one of the trainers. His expertise and dedication were instrumental in the success of this initiative.

Additionally, the effort and leadership of Dr. Chitra and her team were crucial in organizing and executing this training program. Their commitment to improving adolescent mental health and their role in this exciting initiative by the Directorate of General Education, Government of Kerala, deserves special recognition.

Conclusion

This training program is a commendable step forward in addressing adolescent mental health issues. By equipping teachers with the necessary skills and establishing Souhrida Clubs, the Government of Kerala is taking proactive measures to combat substance abuse and reduce suicide rates among adolescents. The involvement of BCMCH's Psychiatry Department, particularly Dr. Suman Varghese Sam, highlights the importance of collaboration between medical institutions and educational bodies in fostering a supportive environment for students.

Congratulations to Dr. Chitra, Dr. Suman, and the entire team for their exceptional contributions to this vital initiative. Their work will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the well-being of students across Kerala.









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