Ayushman Arogya Mandir–Urban Primary Health Centre (AAM-UPHC), Leh, observed World Mental Health Day 2026 by organising an awareness session for Female Multipurpose Health Workers (FMPHWs) serving the urban area. The programme was conducted under the nationwide “Mann Jagriti” Mental Health Awareness Campaign, being observed from October 10 to 16, in accordance with the directions of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.

The session was conducted by Dr Jigmet Wangchuk, Medical Officer at AAM-UPHC Leh, who highlighted the importance of mental health as an integral component of overall health and well-being. He described FMPHWs as key representatives of the Health Department at the community level, noting that their close contact with families enables them to identify health concerns, spread awareness and facilitate access to healthcare services.

During the session, Dr Wangchuk delivered a detailed presentation on the significance of World Mental Health Day, the growing burden of mental health problems, and the importance of early identification and timely intervention. He explained common mental health conditions, their signs and symptoms, ways to identify individuals who may require professional assistance, and the treatment and support services available. He emphasised that mental illnesses are health conditions that require understanding, compassion and appropriate medical care.

A key focus of the programme was addressing stigma and discrimination associated with mental health. Dr Wangchuk urged FMPHWs to adopt a supportive and non-judgmental approach towards individuals experiencing mental health difficulties. He noted that fear, social stigma and misconceptions often prevent people from seeking timely help. Community-level health workers, he added, can play a crucial role in breaking these barriers by encouraging open conversations, offering reassurance and guiding people towards appropriate care.

He also sensitised participants about the Tele-MANAS mental health helpline (14416), a Government of India initiative supported by the National Health Mission (NHM), which provides mental health counselling and support. The FMPHWs were encouraged to widely share information about the toll-free helpline and ensure that people are aware of the mental health services available to them.

The programme reinforced the message that mental health deserves the same attention, care and priority as physical health. Through the active involvement of frontline health workers, AAM-UPHC Leh aims to strengthen community awareness, encourage early help-seeking and contribute to building a more informed, compassionate and stigma-free society.

The observance concluded with a renewed commitment to take the message of mental well-being to every household and ensure that no individual suffers in silence because of stigma, fear or lack of awareness.

The theme of World Mental Health Day 2026 is “Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change.”