GOPIO-Connecticut hosts panel on approaches to mental health prevention and stigma in the community

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GOPIO-Connecticut, held a zoom call recently to host a session on mental health, with a focus on behavioral health, stigma, wellness, and prevention.

Noting that current Indian culture is replete with negative stereotypes, the mental health session was a step toward better understanding of the problem, a press release from the organization indicated.

Held in May, the Zoom session panelists included Dr. Mohini Ranganathan, Yale University School of Medicine Staff Psychiatrist; Mini Santosh, Masters in Education and Child Study Early Childhood Director; Dr. Jaya Daptardar, Ayurvedic Doctor Chief Compliance Officer Bridges Healthcare; and Mayor’s Youth Leadership Council members, Meher Jain, Stamford High School Activist (sophomore); Roshan Jagannathan, Academy of Information Technology and Engineering Activist (senior); and Roshith Jagannathan, Academy of Information Technology and Engineering Activist (senior).

Panelists discussed “the prevalence of stigma in everyday households in order to eliminate misinformation and highlight what every child wants—compassion and a nonjudgemental listener during his or her struggles,” the organizers emphasized.

Each presenter spoke about their expertise and knowledge surrounding mental health. By inviting high school activists from the Mayor’s Youth Leadership Council, GOPIO-CT was able to better understand their objectives and opinions behind mental health, organizers said.

The program was put together by GOPIO-CT President Dr. Daptardar with support from Board Members Anita Mathur and Ashvini Persaud.