News
World Mental Health Day 2026 Observed at Thanal, Rajah Rehabilitation CentreSlogan: “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change”
Date: 10 October 2026
Venue: Thanal, Rajah Rehabilitation Centre, Muthuvatoor
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Thanal, Rajah Rehabilitation Centre, Muthuvatoor, observed World Mental Health Day on 10 October 2026, as part of the 16th meeting of the Schizophrenia Peer Support Group, known as the Silver Ribbon Group. The programme was coordinated by the Rajah Psychiatry Team, alongside the regular peer support group meeting. Around 70 participants, including persons with mental illness, caregivers, and staff members, attended the programme.
The programme began with a prayer, followed by a welcome address delivered by a member of the Peer Support Group. Another group member presented the report of the previous meeting. The introductory speech was delivered by Dr. Pfizer, Psychiatrist, Rajah Hospital, followed by the keynote address by Dr. K. Vineeth, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Amala Institute of Medical Science and Technology.
An interactive question-and-answer session provided an opportunity for participants to clarify their doubts and share their concerns. Felicitations were offered by Dr. Anju Krishna G, Consultant Psychiatrist, and Mr. K. Anil Kumar, Clinical Psychologist. Princy, Social Worker, conducted a session on disability benefits, highlighting the support and benefits available to eligible persons with disabilities.
An important part of the meeting was the active sharing session by members of the Silver Ribbon Group. Participants shared their personal experiences and discussed the practices that helped them cope with challenges and maintain their well-being. They highlighted the importance of prayer, maintaining a systematic daily routine, staying active and engaged in meaningful work, avoiding idleness, attending regular follow-up consultations, taking prescribed medication consistently, and maintaining healthy relationships. They also emphasized the value of using simple expressions such as “sorry” and “thank you” to strengthen relationships and promote mutual understanding.
Adding a creative element to the celebration, the Rajah Psychiatry Team presented a mime related to mental health, conveying meaningful messages about mental health awareness, empathy, and understanding.
The programme highlighted the importance of peer support, family involvement, regular treatment, and social connection in recovery and rehabilitation. The sharing of lived experiences provided encouragement to participants and reinforced the message that people with mental health conditions can lead meaningful and fulfilling lives with appropriate treatment, support, and understanding.
The celebration concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and supporting the recovery and social inclusion of persons with mental health conditions. The programme reflected the spirit of the slogan, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” by providing a platform for participants to share their experiences, learn from one another, and strengthen their journey towards recovery.