Bangladesh University Marks World Mental Health Day, Calls for Improved Access
Bangladesh Medical University marked World Mental Health Day with a seminar, highlighting the need for improved access to mental health services. Professor DMMA Salauddin chaired the event, while Professor Bidhan Ranjan Roy Podder and other distinguished guests shared insights.
The seminar, organised by the department of psychiatry, discussed the stigma surrounding mental health. Professor Podder revealed that even family members of physicians avoid seeking treatment due to negative perceptions. He called for increased awareness among both the public and policymakers to overcome these barriers.
Special guests Professor Nizam Uddin and Professor Mahbubur Rahman echoed these sentiments. They stressed the importance of destigmatising mental health issues and improving access to services. Professor Podder also announced plans to introduce mental health services in schools, following successful initiatives abroad, such as those by UNICEF and Caritas in Germany.
The seminar underscored the urgent need to address mental health in Bangladesh. Professor Podder's proposal to introduce mental health services in schools signals a significant step forward. Increased awareness and understanding among the public and policymakers are crucial for improving mental health services and support.
