Social awareness campaign and a worthy cause

A considerable number of people belonging to all walks of life, irrespective of their social status suffer from various disorders. However, these patients are reluctant to discuss this matter openly with the ones who could very conveniently and comfortably help them to overcome this situation.

It is no secret that our deep rooted cultural beliefs too contribute strongly towards these attitudes and behavioural patterns.

Sri Lanka, fortunately is blessed with an adequate number of medical personnel, capable of bringing relief and solace to such persons. The afflicted persons entertain a “fear - shy psychosis “. They believe or feel, they would be humiliated in public if they meet a psychologist seeking remedy.

It will undoubtedly bring immense satisfaction for them to know that any person suffering from any mental ailment can very confidentially treated with greater personal care and confidence.

With this intention, National Institute of Mental Health ( NIMH) introduced a special Hotline ( 1926) on which anyone could get professional advice for their difficulties.

A team of 120 specially trained nurses are in attendance all 24 hours of the day to assist these people. In addition, the services of over 100 psychologists and medical professionals are also made available.

An awareness campaign of the above programme was highlighted at the Fort Railway Station and Pettah area by a team of medical personnel and staff of NIMH together with the students, teachers and parents of POLYMATH International school, Nawinna, a couple of days ago. Distribution of leaflets and pasting stickers on vehicles are some of the activities carried out at this social awareness campaign and the involvement of students of POLYMATH International School in this worthy cause definitely augurs well for a better future for all Sri Lankans.