Holistic Well Being (Counselling) Forum Events

The National Conference on “sustainable well-being: A catalyst towards collective living” was organized by the School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, Mangaluru, in association with the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC). The conference was inaugurated on March 1, 2024, at 10:00 AM. Dr. Rameela Shekhar, Mental Health Professional & Trainer at Manashanthi Counselling, Research & Training Centre, Mangaluru was the Chief Guest. A total of 130 delegates from within and outside the state registered to participate in the conference.

In her inaugural address, Dr. Rameela Shekhar emphasized the importance of promoting sustainability and raising awareness about various aspects of health, particularly mental and psychological well-being. She highlighted the need to address stigma surrounding mental health, which often prevents individuals from seeking help and leads to long-lasting impacts on individuals, society, and the economy. Dr. Shekhar stressed the significance of mental health professionals in today's society, especially in the post-COVID era, and advocated for a shift towards viewing mental health as a component of overall well-being rather than solely focusing on mental illness.

Furthermore, Dr. Shekhar underscored the value of sharing personal experiences and using language that is sensitive and supportive when discussing mental health. She praised the efforts of Scintilla 2024 in promoting awareness of mental well-being and mindful living, emphasizing the importance of initiating conversations and making even small impacts in addressing mental health challenges. Dr. Shekhar's address highlighted the urgent need for destigmatising mental health issues and fostering a more inclusive and understanding approach towards mental well-being in society.

During her presidential address at the conference, Dr. Jenis Mary, the Vice Principal emphasised the importance of holistic well-being and togetherness as mentioned in the Holy Scripture. She highlighted the significance of monitoring our thoughts, as they greatly impact our lives, with an average person having 70 million thoughts a day. Dr. Mary stressed the need to cultivate positive thinking and analyse how our thoughts manifest within us. She also promoted practices such as spirituality, religion, yoga, meditation, and manifestation as tools to foster a positive mindset and love for all, motivating individuals to live better lives.

Dr. Jenis Mary also underlined the importance of cultivating sustainable behavior by valuing people, life, and resources. She praised the team's collaborative spirit and the efforts of faculty and students in bringing the conference to fruition. Dr. Mary commended the love and collective living ethos demonstrated in their teamwork, emphasizing the significance of valuing resources and passing along sustainable practices to future generations.

Earlier, Dr. Rosa Nimmy Mathew, Head of the Department of Counseling, enlightened the audience on the theme "Sustainable Well-being: A Catalyst towards Collective Living," which emphasises living at the intersection of resource utilization and mindfulness towards future generations and the long-term wellness of the human race.

Prof. Cicilia F Goveas, IQAC Co ordinator, Dr. Sebastin K V, Dean – Academics, Dr. Wilsy Francis Organising Secretary, Ms. Thani Anwar, Faculty, Dr. Jacinta D Souza Former Pricipal, Prof. Eveleen Bennis, Secretary Institute of Social Service, Dr. Sandra sunita Lobo NAAC Co ordinator, Prof. Maria D Costa, Ms. Khadeeja Afreen , President of the Holistic well-being forum, Ms. Precella J B were present during the occasion.

Dr. Wilsy Francis, Organising Secretary rendered the vote of thanks and Ms. Arpitha HB compered.

-Dr. Wilsy Francis
Organising Secretary