A one-day extension programme on “Mental Well-Being and Social Inclusion of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)” was organised on Sunday at the relief camp located in Wangkhei High School in Imphal.
The event was jointly organised by the Centre for Study of Social Inclusion, MU; the Department of Mass Communication, MU, and the Department of Psychiatry, JNIMS.
The programme aimed to address the social marginalisation and mental health challenges faced by the displaced community residing in relief centres.
Speaking to the media, assistant professor Bharat emphasised the adverse impact of social exclusion on individuals’ ability to secure basic rights, such as employment, education, property, and access to public goods.
He noted that those who are socially marginalised are at a higher risk of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
“Social inclusion has the potential to significantly improve the mental well-being of internally displaced persons. By fostering community engagement and meaningful connections, we can help them feel a sense of belonging and promote mental health,” Bharat explained.
Professor Damodar Nepram director of Centre for Study of Social Inclusion MU RK Nayansana Devi president of Jaideep Memorial Foundation, and Professor Koijam Shantibala head Department of Psychiatry, JNIMS also attended the event.
The programme also included a book donation to the relief camp, written by RK Nayansana Devi herself, with the aim of supporting education and mental enrichment among the camp residents.
