iNDICA NEWS BUREAU-
The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin – Connecticut Chapter (GOPIO-CT) hosted a virtual seminar to observe Mental Health Awareness Month. The theme of the seminar was “Embracing Wellness and Cultivating Mental Health Awareness”, and it featured a diverse panel of speakers.
GOPIO-CT serves as a non-partisan, secular, civic, and community service organization – promoting awareness of Indian culture, customs, and contributions of people of Indian origin through community programs, forums, events, and youth activities. It seeks to strengthen partnerships and create an ongoing dialogue with local communities.
The online panel discussion generated insightful questions from the participants, and the Q&A session provided valuable takeaways for parents and participants. Over the last 18 years, GOPIO-CT, a chapter of GOPIO International has become an active and dynamic organization hosting interactive sessions with policymakers and academicians, community events, youth mentoring, networking workshops, and collaborating with other organizations.
Dr Thomas Abraham, Chairman of GOPIO International and Trustee of GOPIO-CT kicked off the wellness seminar and panel discussion on May 30, 2024, via Zoom. The panelists of the virtual seminar included Dr. Mohini Ranganathan, an associate professor of Psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine and a practicing psychiatrist for 20 years, and Dr. Jaya Daptardar, an Ayurvedic Doctor with 25 years of experience who also serves as the Chief Compliance Officer for Bridges Healthcare in CT, and Mini Santosh, an Early Childhood Director with Community Action Agency of Western CT.
Dr. Mohini emphasized that no community is immune to mental health issues and stressed the importance of open conversations about mental health. She also highlighted the lack of adequate awareness and conversation about mental health in the South Asian American community, while also noting an eagerness to learn about it. “It is important not to be shy about discussing behavioral health issues,” she said.
“Behavioral health challenges are not specific to any particular race, ethnicity, or gender,” said Dr. Jaya Daptardar. She emphasized the importance of identifying early signs of behavioral changes and challenges and starting conversations to seek help. She also discussed various therapies and treatments available, as well as simple prevention and wellness methods such as breathing techniques, meditation, and yoga.
Mini Santosh who specializes in early childhood education spoke about the need for more attention to mental health, especially after the pandemic. She highlighted the stigma surrounding mental health in Indian communities and emphasized the importance of providing support and access to mental health services.
