World Mental Health Day was observed last Tuesday with an impactful initiative by the Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority (WHPHA), which brought mental health education and support directly to the staff of the Highlander Hotel.
This year’s theme, “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” highlighted the importance of mental health support during crises such as conflict and health emergencies.
The WHPHA Public Health Team, comprising professionals from the Mental Health Clinic, Public Health, and Wellness Teams, conducted two awareness sessions: one in the morning from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and another in the afternoon from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Over 40 hotel staff members attended these sessions, creating an environment for open discussion. Participants shared personal stories and testimonies about the pressures of working overtime and how these pressures affected their mental well-being. Many attendees described the workshop as an eye-opener, helping them recognize stressors they had previously overlooked.
Freda Pyanyo, Deputy Director of Population Health, led a presentation emphasizing the importance of caring for mental health alongside physical, spiritual, and psychological wellness. She reminded attendees that taking mental health days is essential for reducing stress and restoring energy and focus.
Sr. Rose Yapo, a specialist mental health nurse, also spoke about managing stress through regular exercise, healthy eating, and getting eight hours of sleep each night. “Mental health is crucial because it affects our thoughts, feelings, and actions, influencing our physical health, relationships, and our ability to cope with life’s challenges,” she said.
“Good mental health promotes resilience, productivity, and well-being, allowing individuals to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully. Prioritizing mental health is crucial for overall health, as it is deeply connected to physical health,” she emphasized.
After each sessions, wellness checks were conducted, during which staff had their blood pressure and blood sugar levels tested. Several individuals were found to have high blood pressure and were given referrals for follow-up care.
The event concluded on a positive note, leaving participants informed and motivated to prioritize their mental health. The CEO, management and staff of WHPHA expressed their gratitude to Sudeep Geethanandan, the General Manager of the Highlander Hotel, for inviting WHPHA to provide valuable awareness on the topic. They also thanked the hotel staff for their warm hospitality.
