Psychiatry - 2019
November 10(2019)- World Mental Health Day celebration
The Department of Psychiatry at Sri Manukula Vinayagar Medical College and Hospital hosted “World Mental Health Day- Suicide Prevention” on November 10th, 2019. It was a one-day event conducted at the auditorium from 9AMto 2PM. Dr.R.Kumar, Professor and HOD of Psychiatry at SMVMCH, opened the session with a welcoming message. Shri.M.Dhanasekaran, Chairman and Managing Director of SMVE Trust, delivered the presidential speech, while Dr.S.Arun, Professor of Psychiatry, recognized and introduced the speaker. Dr. Lakshmi Vijayakumar’s address on “Suicide Prevalence and Risk” was fantastic. She emphasized on and described the necessary steps that must be taken to prevent suicide, for which her organization, SNEHA, has been helping victims for decades. Various events creating awareness of suicide like painting, skit, and mime were conducted. Stalls were arranged depicting the picture of suicide prevention. The participants were rewarded by the guest speaker.
December10 (2019)-“National Day for Mentally Challenged” Celebration
Department of Psychiatry, Sri Manakula Vinayagar Medical College and Hospital conducted an event for screening and assessment of Mentally Challenged children in a Rehabilitation Home. The venue was Baby Sarah Home for Disabled children at Ariyankuppam, Pondicherry. Multidisciplinary team including junior residents and faculties of Department of Psychiatry, CRRI, Clinical Psychologist and Social worker were part of this event. 50 Mentally challenged children were screened for other psychiatric and physical co-morbidity. The screening and evaluation were carried out by a group of psychiatrist consultants, junior residents, CRRI, Clinical Psychologist, and Social Worker. A total of 50 mentally challenged children were tested individually by a consultant, who supplemented his findings with information from the caregiver. Those children who were found to have mental co-morbidity were put on medication and sent to a clinical psychologist for an IQ test. ID with behavioral problem linked with stereotypy was discovered to be a major impairment. Following the screening and evaluation, the children were given a variety of fruits and play items. The entire crew joined them for lunch and provided entertainment by serving food. Finally, we assured them of our continued assistance and encouraged them to take advantage of the SMVMCH’s holistic treatment and free services.
September 12 (2019)-World Suicide Prevention Day
The Department of Psychiatry at Sri Manukula Vinayagar Medical College and Hospital gave a guest lecture on “Suicide and its Prevention” on November 12th, 2019. It was a one-day event conducted at the MIT auditorium from 10AMto 2PM.Around 100 MBBS students, postgraduates from various department, faculties from the Department of Psychiatry, SMVMCH, Sri ManakulaVinayagar Nursing College students and Sri Manakula Vinayagar Institute of Technology students attended the lecture. The programme began Welcome Address by Dr.R.Kumar, Professor and HOD of Psychiatry at SMVMCH. Dr. Arul Varman discussed the incidence of suicide, how to identify and help those who are at risk of suicide, and various coping and problem-solving strategies. The presentation concluded with a question and answer session in which the audience was able to clarify their concerns. The audience reacted well to the lecture. The guest lecture was followed by a quiz competition, debateand other cultural activities for the nursing and MIT students. Students and faculties stated that they thoroughly enjoyed taking part in this event.