Bhubaneswar, Jul 20: A workshop on psychotherapy and mental health was organized at SUM Hospital-2, Nakhara, Bhubaneswar, bringing together leading psychiatrists and mental health professionals from across Odisha to discuss emerging challenges and treatment approaches for mental illnesses.

The workshop was organized by the Odisha Chapter of the Indian Psychiatric Society and witnessed participation from experts representing seven medical colleges across the state. The participants deliberated on the causes of mental health disorders and highlighted various therapeutic and preventive strategies.

The discussions focused on several critical issues, including student mental health, substance abuse prevention, suicide prevention, and the importance of creating greater awareness about mental well-being. Speakers emphasized the need for early diagnosis, timely intervention, and improved access to mental healthcare services to address the growing burden of psychiatric disorders.

Dr. Arakshita Swain, Dean of SUM Hospital-2, Dr. Swayaprabha Baral, Psychiatrist at SUM Hospital-2, Dr. Ashrumochan Sahu, President of the Odisha Chapter of the Indian Psychiatric Society, Dr. Rebat Mahapatra, Organising Chairman of the workshop, and Dr. Amrita Pattajoshi, Psychiatrist at Hi-Tech Hospital and a member of the Odisha Chapter of the Indian Psychiatric Society, shared their insights on strengthening mental healthcare and promoting psychological well-being in society.

The experts stressed that collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals, educational institutions, and the community are essential to improving mental health awareness and reducing the stigma associated with psychiatric illnesses.