World Mental Health Day 2025 Observation at BGS Medical College and Hospital
Theme: Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies
Date of Event: 10 to 15 October 2025
Venue: Lecture Hall – 1, BGS MCH
Organized by: Department of Psychiatry
In Association With: VIAHS, VINS, and VIPT
Total Participants: 100
Introduction
World Mental Health Week 2025 was observed at BGS Medical College and Hospital from 10th to 15th October 2025 to raise awareness about mental health, encourage resilience, and promote access to mental health services during crises, catastrophes, and emergencies. The celebration aligned with the global theme of the year: “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”
The inaugural ceremony was held on 10th October 2025 and graced by Dean Dr. K. S. Gangadhara and Chief of Hospital Dr. Krishnamurthy, who emphasized the need for preventive strategies, compassionate care, and timely intervention to protect mental well-being, particularly in vulnerable situations.
Event Highlights (10th to 15th October 2025)
1. Faculty Face-Off Competition (10 October 2025)
A unique and engaging Faculty Face-Off was organized exclusively for the faculty members of BGS MCH. The top three participants were awarded certificates of appreciation.
This activity was instrumental in:
Reinforcing the role of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry in tertiary care
Spreading messages of hope, resilience, and teamwork
2. Essay Writing Competition – (14 October 2025)
An inter-institutional Essay Competition was conducted for students of AAMC, VINS, and VIPS on the topic:
“Effect of Social Media on Mental Well-Being.”
Judged by Dr. Virupakshi Jalihal, Guest of Honour
Top three essays were awarded certificates
This event encouraged young minds to reflect on modern psychosocial challenges and the importance of digital well-being.
3. Treasure Hunt for MBBS Students – (14 October 2025)
A Psychiatry-based Treasure Hunt was conducted for 27 second-year MBBS students, with over 60 enthusiastic participants.
The event:
Introduced students to Psychiatry as a discipline
Included case-vignette-based clues
Enhanced understanding of psychiatric signs, symptoms, and presentations
Winners and runners-up were awarded certificates.
Grand Finale – (15 October 2025)
The week concluded with a formal valedictory event and two impactful guest sessions.
Guest Lecture 1:
Speaker: Dr. Virupakshi Jalihal, Associate Professor, Dept. of Psychiatry, Ramaiah Medical College
Topic: “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies”
His talk highlighted:
Mental health support systems in India
Government and institutional emergency services
The importance of creating safe spaces for open conversations on mental health
Guest Lecture 2 (Chief Guest Address):
Speaker: Dr. Hulikal Nataraj – The Miracle Buster
Topic: “Myths, Misconceptions & Demonstration of Various Miracles”
His powerful session focused on:
Busting myths and superstitions related to mental illness
Encouraging scientific thinking in society
Promoting early identification and treatment
The live demonstrations and myth-breaking format made the session highly engaging and memorable for the audience.
Outcomes
The Mental Health Week 2025:
Enhanced awareness about recognizing psychiatric symptoms early
Challenged harmful societal beliefs and practices
Encouraged students, faculty, and clinicians to advocate for mental health
Stressed the need to expand awareness in rural communities for better outcomes
SDG Alignment
SDG 3 – Good Health & Well-Being: Promoting mental health across all age groups
SDG 4 – Quality Education: Encouraging informed, stigma-free learning and awareness
Conclusion
World Mental Health Day 2025 at BGS MCH was a resounding success, combining academic insight, interactive learning, and myth-busting social awareness. The week-long celebration strengthened the commitment of the institution toward mental health advocacy, early intervention, and compassionate care—especially during times of crisis.
