Celebrating 50 Years of NIMHANS: A Milestone in Mental Health
On January 3, 2025, the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, attended the golden jubilee celebrations of the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru. This event marked a significant milestone in the journey of NIMHANS, a leading institution in mental health and neurosciences. The President’s presence underscored the importance of mental health awareness and the advancements made in this field over the past five decades.
NIMHANS: A Leader in Mental Health Care
NIMHANS has established itself as a pioneer in mental health and neurosciences through innovative research and rigorous academic programs. During her speech, President Murmu highlighted the institute’s exceptional patient care, which has positioned it as a leader in the sector. She praised the Bellary model of community-based mental healthcare, which has set a precedent for similar initiatives across the country.
Moreover, the introduction of the Tele MANAS platform has revolutionized mental health services. This initiative leverages technology to provide support to individuals in need. The President noted that the 53 Tele MANAS cells across India have successfully served nearly 1.7 million people in their preferred languages over the past two years. This achievement reflects the commitment of NIMHANS to make mental health services accessible to everyone, regardless of their location.
Growing Awareness of Mental Health Issues
The President addressed the historical neglect of mental health issues in many societies. She acknowledged that, in recent years, there has been a significant increase in awareness surrounding mental health. This shift has helped reduce the stigma and unscientific beliefs associated with mental illnesses. As a result, more individuals are now willing to seek help for their mental health concerns.
This growing awareness is particularly crucial as mental health issues are becoming more prevalent globally. The President emphasized the importance of creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable discussing their mental health challenges. She expressed her satisfaction with NIMHANS’ initiatives, such as Tele MANAS and the SAMVAAD platform, which focus on child and adolescent mental health. These programs are vital in addressing the unique challenges faced by younger populations.
Integrating Traditional Wisdom with Modern Healthcare
In her speech, President Murmu also spoke about the value of integrating traditional wisdom into modern healthcare practices. She referenced the teachings of ancient sages and seers, which can provide a spiritual framework for understanding life’s challenges. The President pointed out that our scriptures emphasize the mind’s role in shaping our perceptions of the world.
NIMHANS has successfully incorporated traditional methods, such as Yoga, alongside contemporary healthcare approaches. This holistic approach aims to alleviate both mental and physical distress. The President commended NIMHANS for its efforts in blending these two realms, which can lead to more comprehensive care for patients.
The Foundation of a Healthy Society
The President concluded her address by emphasizing the connection between mental health and societal well-being. She stated that a healthy mind is fundamental to a healthy society. Compassion, kindness, knowledge, and wisdom are essential qualities that should guide mental healthcare professionals in their practice.
As NIMHANS celebrates its 50th anniversary, the President expressed her confidence in the institution’s ability to continue providing high-quality care. She believes that the ongoing commitment to mental health awareness and innovative practices will pave the way for a brighter future for mental health care in India.
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