Damalgre, Oct 16: Students, mental health professionals and community members came together at Matchiang English School in Damalgre on Friday for a community outreach programme aimed at breaking the silence around mental health and encouraging people to seek timely support.
The programme was organised by the Department of Social Work, Captain Williamson Sangma State University (CWSSU), Tura Campus, in collaboration with Mason Phillips College, Tura, under the theme “Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change”.
Supported by the Meghalaya Government’s Chief Minister’s Youth Development Scheme, with funding facilitated through the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, South West Garo Hills, Ampati, the initiative sought to bring mental health awareness beyond educational institutions and create space for open conversations within the community.
Ambrose Ch. Marak, retired IAS officer and Registrar of CWSSU, highlighted the role of educational institutions in raising awareness and fostering supportive environments, emphasising the importance of working closely with communities to promote health and social well-being.
Dokatchi Marak, a clinical psychologist under the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), South West Garo Hills, spoke about recognising mental health concerns and seeking professional help when needed. The session also stressed the importance of responding to people experiencing emotional and psychological difficulties with empathy and understanding.
Moving beyond formal discussions, the programme featured songs by students of Mason Phillips College, a skit by CWSSU students and a special presentation by Master of Social Work (MSW) students of North-Eastern Hill University’s Tura Campus.
The student-led performances helped communicate mental health messages in an accessible way while highlighting the role of young people in promoting awareness and social responsibility.
Community voices at the centre
An interactive session and experience-sharing discussions formed a key part of the programme, allowing participants to express concerns and listen to one another.
The discussions reinforced the importance of recognising lived experiences in shaping mental health awareness initiatives and developing responses suited to local needs.
The outreach also highlighted the potential for collaboration among universities, schools, mental health professionals and community organisations in improving access to information and support services.
The Department of Social Work said it hoped to build on the initiative through sustained community engagement, further awareness programmes, dialogue with schools and local leaders, student-led outreach and stronger links with professional mental health services.
The department acknowledged the support of the Government of Meghalaya, the district administration, university leadership, participating institutions, Matchiang English School, community representatives, faculty members, student volunteers and other participants.
The programme marked an effort by CWSSU and its partners to take mental health conversations directly to communities in South West Garo Hills, with an emphasis on listening to people’s experiences, reducing stigma and encouraging a more supportive environment for those facing mental health challenges.
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