World Mental Health Day, celebrated on October 10, is an occasion to shed light on the importance of mental well-being. This year, the theme, “Mental health is a universal human right,” resounded throughout the Indian Army’s Southern Command Area of Responsibility. In a bid to promote mental health awareness, a unique campaign titled ‘Aao Baat Karein – Let’s Talk’ has been launched across Southern Command.
Facilitating Crucial Conversations
Under the ‘Aao Baat Karein’ campaign, a community of volunteers from the Armed Forces, including doctors, nursing officers, nursing assistants, serving officers, veterans, and families, have come together. They have made themselves available through a common telephone number to provide support to armed forces personnel and their families. The aim is to offer a safe space for those experiencing mental distress to engage in open discussions, seek solutions, and gain advice.
A Vision Realized
Major General Hirdesh Sahni, MG Medical of the Command, is the visionary behind this initiative. He emphasized that this facility is designed to bridge the gap for armed forces personnel who are separated from their familial support networks. The ‘Aao Baat Karein’ platform is accessible at all Southern Command stations and is being overseen by various medical heads in their respective formations and stations.
The team of volunteers will convene at regular intervals and on an as-needed basis. They can be reached through a central mobile number, 8010160751, which is manned at the Command Hospital Southern Command Pune. This central point of contact will then connect individuals with the appropriate military station team.
Acknowledgment and Encouragement
Lieutenant General Ajai Kumar Singh, Army Commander Southern Command, commended the dedication and initiative of the medical team behind this campaign. He has directed station administrations to ensure that this essential service is widely publicized and accessible to all who may require it.
Empowering Through Conversation
On World Mental Health Day, the ‘Aao Baat Karein – Let’s Talk’ teams at various stations engaged with individuals who sought assistance. The day featured a range of activities, including awareness lectures, panel discussions, interactive sessions, poster displays, pamphlet distribution, and walk-in counseling sessions, all aimed at promoting mental health awareness and support.
The ‘Aao Baat Karein – Let’s Talk’ campaign demonstrates a commitment to destigmatizing mental health concerns and fostering a culture of support and understanding within the armed forces community.
