Social taboo on mental health must end: speakers

With an aim to address the rise of mental health as a worldwide crisis, Walk to Serenity -- a US-based non-government organisation -- yesterday organised a discussion titled “Mindset Walk: Mental Health Matters”.

The programme was held at Bishwo Shahitto Kendro (BSK), said a press release.

Speaking at the programme, Ariful Islam, convenor of Walk to Serenity, said social taboo regarding mental health in the country need to be dispelled immediately. He sought cooperation from all to face the challenge posed by the deterioration of public mental health.

In his speech, Helal Uddin Ahmed, assistant professor of National Institute of Mental Health and Hospital, stressed on the need for children to grow up in safe environments that keep them away from negativity.

Noted psychiatrist Mekhala Sarkar, beautician Kaniz Almas Khan, and actors Bonna Mirza, Moutushi Biswas and Bhabna were present at the discussion, among others.