The Women Cell of the School of Applied and Life Sciences (SALS) organized a one-day seminar on World Mental Health Day, held on 14 October 2024 from 2:30 to 4:30 pm. The seminar focused on the theme 'Mental health at work, concerning women.'
The event began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by invited dignitaries and a welcome dance performed by Ms Sudeshna, a B Sc Biotech, I year student. Prof Ajay Singh, Director, SALS, honored the keynote speaker, Prof (Dr) Priya Ranjan Avinash, Head, Psychiatry, Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences, Jolly Grant, Dehradun, and guest speaker Ms Kanika Guleria, Assistant Professor at UCN, Dehradun.
Dr Sadhna Awasthi, the Coordinator of the Women Cell and an Assistant Professor at SALS, warmly welcomed the dignitaries and participants. Prof Ajay Singh delivered the welcome note, emphasizing the seminar's core objectives.
The keynote speaker, Prof (Dr)Priya Ranjan Avinash, addressed key mental health topics, focusing on stress management. He introduced practical relaxation techniques, such as Jacobson’s Progressive Muscle Relaxation (JPMR) and breathing exercises, to help cope with mental stress and anxiety. Additionally, Ms Ayushi Bhaduri, an M Sc Food Tech I year student, recited an inspiring self-composed poem about the role of women in society.
Ms Kanika Guleria , Guest speaker discussed the importance of nutrition and meditation in maintaining a healthy body and a stress-free mind. The seminar aimed to raise awareness about workplace mental stress and its management, especially for working women. The event saw active participation from SALS faculty members and students, contributing to its success.