University of Jammu students perform Nukkad Natak for troops and their families

JAMMU: The Department of Psychology, University of Jammu, in collaboration with the Tiger Gunners, organized a Nukkad Natak (street play) as part of the World Mental Health Day celebrations. Held annually on October 10th, this year's theme was brought to life through a performance today, under the guidance of Prof. Sangita Gupta, Head, Department of Psychology and Dean Social Sciences. 

The event commenced with an address by Dr. Sarita Sood, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, who stressed the need to shift the focus from mental illness to mental wellness in order to promote a healthier outlook on mental health. 

Titled 'Jawaan', the play, written by Ms. Sanampreet, gave the troops and their families an insightful glimpse into the life of a soldier, addressing the psychological challenges they often face. Through their moving performance, the students of the Department of Psychology brought attention to everyday mental health struggles and highlighted the importance of timely support to build mental resilience. The play also tackled the societal stigma surrounding psychological counselling, encouraging openness and understanding. 

The performance was widely appreciated by the audience for its relevance and impact. The key takeaway emphasized the necessity of breaking barriers to seeking mental health support and reinforcing the idea that counselling can be instrumental in helping individuals thrive, even in challenging environments. 

In recognition of their commendable efforts, the organizers presented the student team with a memento. This collaborative initiative between the Department of Psychology and the Tiger Gunners underscores the critical importance of mental well-being, particularly within the armed forces, and serves as a positive step towards promoting holistic well being for troops and their families.