From domestic violence to social discrimination to patriarchal abuse, women experience a series of mental and emotional health challenges throughout their lives. Unfortunately, a large number of them continue to suffer without adequate help due to lack of support networks and stigma attached to mental illnesses.
The need to raise awareness about mental health challenges and extend support to those in need was the central theme as Poddar Foundation organized a community training program on mental health awareness for women to mark International Women’s Day.
Women members of a Self Help (Bachat Gat) Group from Mankhurd actively took part in the awareness session and came forward to discuss the emotional and mental challenges faced by them in their daily lives. They interacted freely with experts and counselors who doled out valuable advice and suggestions on dealing with such challenges through measures such as creating a support network and reaching out for help. The awareness cum counseling session was held at Mukesh Patel Auditorium, Vile Parle, Mumbai.
A panel discussion was also held at NMIMS where our Managing Trustee highlighted the need for crating awareness about mental health, removing the stigma attached to mental illnesses, the need to seek help as well as creating a profession in Mental Health.
Dr Prakriti Poddar, eminent Counselor and Managing Trustee at the Poddar Foundation and Director Poddar Wellness Ltd quoted, “A number of factors impact the mental health status of women. These include their social surroundings, the environment at their homes, and their socio economic status. A large number of women in India struggle with mental and emotional associated with abusive spouses, financial problems as well as social discrimination. It is extremely important to create mental health awareness amongst the women and educate them about when and how to seek expert help.”
