World Mental Health Day 2026 Observed at Thanagundi Village, Yadgir

Don Bosco Centre for Social Action, Yadgir Organises Mental Health Awareness Programme and Free Health Check-up Camp

Yadgir, October 10, 2026: DBCSA, Yadgir, observed World Mental Health Day 2026 at the Don Bosco Community Hall in Thanagundi village under the leadership of its Director, Fr. Shabu Francis. The programme aimed to create awareness about mental health, stress management, and counselling among rural communities. A free health check-up camp was also organised as part of the event.

Inaugurating the programme, Mr. Sharanagowda, Psychologist at YIMS Hospital, Yadgir, emphasised that health includes both physical and mental well-being. While physical health problems are often easily recognised, mental health concerns may go unnoticed. He encouraged participants to identify signs of mental distress, such as difficulty concentrating at work, family-related problems and excessive stress and to seek appropriate professional help. He also advised people to avoid harmful habits such as alcohol consumption and smoking.

Presiding over the programme, Fr. Shabu Francis, Director of DBCSA Yadgir, stressed that everyone should give priority to mental health. He encouraged people not to keep their problems to themselves but to share their concerns with family members and trusted individuals to find solutions. He also highlighted the importance of protecting children’s mental health, providing counselling services and creating greater awareness of mental health in rural areas.

Mr. Bhimaraya Bangari, President of the Valmiki Community and chief guest, spoke about the importance of physical and mental health. He encouraged people to communicate openly, share their difficulties and support one another in overcoming personal and family challenges.

Mr. Shivakumar from the Mental Health Department of Yadgir District Hospital explained the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions, the effects of psychological stress and misconceptions associated with superstitions and black magic. He emphasised the need to recognise mental health concerns and seek appropriate treatment and professional support.

Mr. Simeon from the District Mental Health Department spoke about mental stress arising from excessive thinking, sleeplessness, anger and challenging life experiences. He highlighted the importance of counselling in addressing emotional difficulties and developing healthy coping mechanisms.

The programme was attended by Mr. Shekappa, Coordinator of Alada Mara Foundation; Mr. Anand, Community Health Officer (CHO) at Thanagundi Sub-Health Centre; Mr. Vishwaradhya Pullakki; Mr. Yesu Mitra, former Gram Panchayat member; a Health Inspector from Krushid Health; Mr. Devendrappa Telugur, Livelihood Coordinator and Ms. Sheeba, Ms. Mariyamma, and Mr. Basavaraj from the Mobile Clinic team.

Mr. Mallikarjun Kurakundi, DB Tech Coordinator, compered the programme. Mr. Suryakanth, Counsellor of the MINDS Project, welcomed the gathering and Mr. Sharanappa Amarapur, MINDS Project Coordinator, proposed the vote of thanks.

A total of 63 villagers, including 21 men and 42 women, participated in the programme and received valuable information on mental health and well-being. The free health check-up camp complemented the awareness sessions by promoting preventive healthcare among the villagers.

Through this initiative, DBCSA Yadgir reaffirmed its commitment to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, encouraging timely counselling and treatment and improving access to healthcare and support services for rural and marginalised communities.

The programme concluded with a call to prioritise mental health, seek help without hesitation and build a healthier and more supportive community.