### One in Ten Suffers from Mental Illness: Dr. Jeengar*

The Department of Psychiatry at Geetanjali Medical College and Hospital concluded its "Mental Health Awareness Week" on October 10, coinciding with "World Mental Health Day." The event's Chief Guest was Dr. Rakesh Vyas, Vice-Chancellor of Geetanjali University, with Special Guest Dr. Manjinder Kaur, Additional Principal.

During the lecture, Head of Psychiatry Dr. Jitendra Jeengar highlighted that approximately 10% of people in India suffer from mental illnesses, with 70-80% of patients never reaching psychiatrists. There is a significant shortage of psychiatrists in the country, and due to the stigma and superstitions surrounding mental illness, many patients opt to see other doctors instead of mental health professionals. Dr. Jeengar emphasized the importance of treating mental illness, as it increases the risk of suicide, affects one's ability to handle personal responsibilities, disrupts daily life, and raises the likelihood of developing other diseases like heart conditions. It also increases the tendency toward substance abuse.

Professor Dr. Manu Sharma provided an overview of the activities conducted throughout Mental Health Awareness Week. The week began on October 4 with a lecture on "Time Management in the Workplace" by Dr. Jeengar, held for the administrative staff of Geetanjali Medical College. On October 5, a poster-making competition took place, with prizes awarded to Sahil Upadhyay, Moomal Kunwar Rajput, and Rhythm Maheshwari. On Sunday, October 6, about 150 doctors participated in a walk around Fateh Sagar Lake to raise awareness about mental health. On October 7, Dr. Jeengar delivered a lecture on "Stress Management in the Workplace" to nearly 900 employees at the Udaipur Railway Training Center. On October 8, nursing and pharmacy students performed street plays at various public places to spread awareness. Finally, on October 9, an open mic session was organized at Geetanjali University, where students Sakshi Meena, Narendra Prajapati, and Muskan Singh were awarded for their performances.