Jalandhar-based college organises Faculty Development Programme on “Mental Hygiene” 

Apeejay College of Fine Arts (ACFA) in Jalandhar, renowned for its commitment to the holistic and all-round development of its students and faculty, recently organised a Faculty Development Programme (FDP) focused on “Mental Hygiene.” The college’s Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) hosted the event and underscored the importance of mental health, especially for educators.

Dr. Neerja Dhingra, Principal of ACFA, in her opening remarks, highlighted the pressing need for mental hygiene in today’s fast-paced world. She emphasised that educators, as nation-builders, face immense mental pressure and that their mental well-being is crucial for the effective dissemination of knowledge. Dr. Dhingra stressed that mentally healthy teachers can profoundly influence their students, aiding them in building their futures and contributing positively to society.

The resource persons for the FDP were Ms. Niharika Majumdar and Ms. Harpreet Kaur from the Department of Psychology. They provided invaluable insights into the well-being of mental health. Their discussions covered a wide range of topics, including the science of maintaining mental health and the various aspects of mental disorders. They elaborated on the importance of mental health in daily life, strategies for dealing with mental disorders, and the significance of being emotionally strong and leading a stress-free life.

Ms. Majumdar and Ms. Kaur emphasised that mental health education programs are essential for maintaining mental hygiene. They pointed out that awareness and mindfulness are key to keeping the mind calm and living a fulfilling life. By doing so, individuals can not only ensure their own well-being but also contribute to the welfare of their families and society at large.

The session also encouraged the practice of meditation as a vital tool for maintaining mental health. The resource persons shared practical tips and techniques for incorporating meditation into daily routines to promote mental tranquility and resilience.

Dr. Dhingra praised the presentations by Ms. Niharika and Ms. Harpreet, acknowledging their detailed and effective delivery of such a critical topic. She also commended the efforts of Dr. Anjana Kumari and Dr. Payal Arora for their successful organisation of the event, ensuring it ran smoothly and achieved its objectives.

In conclusion, the Faculty Development Programme on “Mental Hygiene” at Apeejay College of Fine Arts was a significant step towards promoting mental health awareness among educators. It provided the faculty with essential tools and knowledge to manage their mental well-being, thereby enhancing their ability to contribute positively to their students’ lives and society. The program was a testament to the college’s dedication to fostering a supportive and enriching environment for both faculty and students.