The Department of Health launched a holistic health programme at the Government Higher Secondary School in Chuchot Shamma on May 28, aiming to promote overall well-being among students.

The programme is designed to extend to all schools in the forthcoming days, providing an array of health services under the National Health Mission, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), GOI.

Key components of the programme include child health screening and early intervention services, targeting 32 diseases through the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), and adolescent health counseling through the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK), supported by RKSK AFHC counsellors and clinical psychologists.

The initiative also integrates the National Mental Health Programme and the National Tobacco Control Programme, promoting holistic youth health and wellness.
During the event, State Nodal Officer, National Mental Health Programme, Dr. Iqbal Ahmad emphasised the importance of school health and wellness programmes.
Psychiatrist and Drug De-Addiction Specialist, SNM Hospital, Leh, Dr. Tashi Tundup, addressed individual and interpersonal issues, providing personalised counselling sessions.

Dr. Tashi emphasised the importance of managing day-to-day stress, interpersonal issues, and mental health challenges to maintain productivity and contribute positively to society. He discussed various mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and behavioral problems, emphasising the need for proper treatment as revealed by the National Mental Health Survey, which showed that 11% of the population requires immediate mental health intervention.

District Consultant for the National Tobacco Control Programme, Dr. Stanzin Jamyang discussed tobacco addiction, cessation methods, and Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), along with coping strategies for withdrawal symptoms.

Individual counselling sessions were also conducted by RBSK clinical psychologist, Mariyah Samreen, and RKSK AFHC Counsellor, Stanzin Edzes. A live demonstration of the Telemanas toll-free helpline was shown to educate students on its significance and optimal usage.

The initiative highlights the Department of Health’s commitment to community well-being through comprehensive health services and awareness programmes.