GUWAHATI: Ashadeep observed World Mental Health Day 2026 with an awareness programme featuring a panel discussion and a short video competition at NEDFI House, Dispur, Guwahati, on Saturday, October 10.
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The programme aimed to encourage open conversations about mental health, challenge social stigma and highlight the importance of seeking support without fear of judgement.
The panel discussion, titled “Beyond Being Strong: It’s Okay Not to Be Okay”, brought together experts from mental healthcare, law enforcement, the legal sector and academia, along with a caregiver, to discuss the challenges surrounding mental health awareness and emotional well-being.
The panel comprised Pranab Jyoti Goswami, IPS, DIG (Administration); Dr. Prakash Barman, psychiatrist at the National Health Mission; Reeta Borbora, advocate at the Gauhati High Court; Dr. Krtikka Agarwal, psychiatrist at Apollo Hospital; Gayatree Goswamee, Dean and Professor at USTM; and Ambarish Goswami, a caregiver.
The event also featured the screening and felicitation of winners of the All Assam Short Video Competition, organised to encourage young people to address mental health issues through creative storytelling.
The competition saw participants explore the theme “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay”, with the winning entries recognised for their contributions to conversations around mental health. Mukta Kothat Boudho Ukhah won the first prize of Rs 10,000, followed by “Mann Ki Batein” in second place with Rs 7,000 and “The Jivan Chakra” in third place with Rs 5,000.
The entries were evaluated by a jury comprising psychiatrist Dr. Amlan Deb, film director Narayan Seal and The Assam Tribune Senior Staff Reporter Mamta Mishra.
Around 150 participants, including mental health professionals, students, caregivers, representatives of government departments and civil society organisations, attended the programme.
Established in 1996, Ashadeep works in mental healthcare, psychosocial rehabilitation and community-based care. Through the programme, the organisation sought to promote greater awareness, encourage acceptance and reinforce the importance of creating a supportive environment for people experiencing mental health challenges.
