To raise awareness of mental health on the occasion of World Mental Health Day, Silver Oak Health organised a panel discussion themed ‘Mental Health in an Unequal World’ on October 8th, 2021. It was moderated by Diana Sam who is a counselling psychologist at Silver Oak Health. She has a Master’s Degree in Applied Psychology with specialization in counselling from Tata Institute of Social Sciences. Diana is also a certified online counsellor, suicide intervention specialist, and queer affirmative therapist. This panel discussion was very special because the panel members shared their counselling experience and its benefits with all participants.
The panelists asked Diana about mental health statistics and mental wellbeing in India. Dr. Swati, has more than 35 years of experience in private as well as public sector since her medical graduation. She shared that mental health faces stigma in our society and it is a concept that is misunderstood due to lack of knowledge. Mr. Ajit, an assistant manager in content development at Byju’s, and Mr. Aman Ojha, a 2nd year student of psychology at Jain University had similar set of views. The panel also discussed how people should prioritize mental wellbeing in their lives.
As the discussion was reaching its conclusion, Dr. Swati stated that she decided to go for therapy since the idea was suggested by her daughter. She shared with the attendees how her relationship with her family has developed post therapy. Ajit and Aman were also hesitant in the initial stage as it was an alien concept for them. The key thing is to accept and normalize therapy.
This one-of-a-kind session came to an end with the host taking up the queries posted by the attendees.