Mr. Lal Thanzara, Parliamentary Secretary has innaugurated 'One day Consultation & Two days Workshop on Mental Health( Depression and Suicide) at I&PR Conference Hall, today. Noted Psychiatrists, NGO's and Church leaders participated in this consultation which is jointly organised by Volunteers for Community Mental Health(VOLCOMH), Mizoram and SAARTHAK, New Delhi.

Parliamentary Secretary pointed out that much emphasis being given on spiritual and physical health while mental health is being neglected at one's own peril. He lamented at the loss of many youths with a prospect of bright future due to suicide acts. That lack of awareness on mental health and apathy towards mental illness were the main causes of increasing suicide acts in Mizoram, he stated. He had also lauded the commendable efforts of VOLCOMH and vital contributions made by sympathetic people in News papers even as he conveyed government's assurance and co-operation on such kind of goodwill missions and noble acts.

Dr.John M Ralte has also equated the importance of  Body, Mind and Soul by saying that there can be no soul and body that is healthy with a mind that is unhealthy and sick. He explained that out of 100 people with unsound minds 10% are mentally ill while the rest are people suffering from mental problems.In his views, it was foolish of people with mental problems to avoid Psychiatrist when he/she had no problem of visiting a Physician when physically sick.

'Suicide and Depression' were the main theme of this consultation in which Dr.C.Lalhrekima, Dr.John M. Ralte and their colleagues of noted Psychiatrists in the city were the panel of experts. The consultation which kicked off today will be followed by seminar on the same topic at Central YMA Hall, Aizawl, tomorrow. People suffering from  mentally related problems are welcomed to approach VOLCOMH at their Counseling Center and Drop-in-Centre at Central YMA Building,MG Road, Aizawl.