Sri Vijaya Puram, Sep 22: Composite Regional Centre (CRC) A&N Islands, under NIEPMD Chennai (Dept. of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, MSJ&E, Govt. of India), in association with the National Tele-MANAS Programme at G.B. Pant Hospital, successfully organized an Awareness Programme on the observance of World Suicide Prevention Day 2025 at CRC Brookshabad. The theme of the Programme was “Nurturing Hope and Resilience: Supporting Mental Health of Parents, Caregivers, and Persons with Disabilities.”
The programme was hosted by Mrs. Saranyah, Rehabilitation Officer, CRC A&N Islands, and graced by Mrs. Sumithamol, Director, CRC A&N Islands. The welcome address was delivered by Mr. Prabhu, Special Educator-cum-O&M Instructor, while the vote of thanks was presented by Mr. Ashok, Vocational Instructor. Informative Tele-MANAS pamphlets were circulated among participants by Mrs. Ambika Paul, Technical and Project Coordinator, National Tele-MANAS Programme, A&N Islands.
The session was led by Ms. Nidhi, Clinical Psychologist, National Tele-MANAS, G.B. Pant Hospital, who sensitized parents and caregivers about the importance of mental well-being in raising children with disabilities. She also introduced the National Tele-MANAS Helpline (14416), a free 24×7 mental health support service, and highlighted avenues for follow-up clinical support for clients in need.
The programme included interactive activities, open discussions, and practical tips for stress management and resilience building. Parents expressed heartfelt feedback, stating that the session was “truly useful and impactful”, giving them hope, motivation, and a better perspective on balancing their responsibilities with self-care.
As a follow-up, CRC A&N Islands will coordinate with the Tele-MANAS team to facilitate further clinical services and counseling support for identified clients, ensuring sustained mental health support for persons with disabilities and their families in the islands.
CRC A&N Islands expressed gratitude to all participants and faculty members for making the programme successful and reaffirmed its commitment to continue such initiatives for the holistic well-being of persons with disabilities and their caregivers.
