Hostel wardens urged to track students’ mental health

Koppal: District health and family welfare officer Dr T Lingaraju stressed the need to closely monitor the mental health of students staying in hostels, stating that mental and physical health are two sides of the same coin.Speaking after inaugurating a training programme on mental health and substance abuse for hostel wardens at the GH Patel Hall of the zilla panchayat on Thursday, he said behavioural changes and signs of emotional distress among adolescents should not be ignored.Dr Lingaraju said that mental illnesses, like other health conditions, can be treated effectively if identified early. Timely counselling and medical intervention can help affected individuals lead normal lives, he added.KIMS head of department and psychiatrist Dr Ravikumar said stress, unhealthy lifestyles and traumatic incidents were among the major causes of mental illness. Early diagnosis, counselling and medication can help patients recover, he said.Warning against rising substance abuse among youngsters, he said addiction could lead to serious physical complications, including jaundice and gastric disorders, apart from affecting mental stability and self-control.He also advised people to adopt healthy lifestyles, including yoga, meditation, exercise and balanced diets, to manage stress effectively. Dr Ravikumar said those experiencing symptoms of mental illness can seek assistance through the Tele-MANAS helpline by dialling 14416.District health education officer Shivanand VP, hostel wardens from across the district, and staff of the District Mental Health Programme attended the event. Psychologist Pushpa Theresa proposed the vote of thanks.