The National Commission for Human Development (NCHD), Sargodha, in collaboration with the Prisons Department, organized an awareness seminar at District Jail Sargodha to mark World Mental Health Day.
DIG Prisons Sargodha Region Saeedullah Gondal was the chief guest. Other prominent participants included NCHD Deputy Director Mehr Umar Daraz Jhawari, Jail Superintendent Waheed Khan, Rotary Club Sargodha President Mukhtar Ahmad Mirza, psychologist Dr. Mawra, University of Sargodha Psychology Department Chairperson Prof. Dr. Najma Iqbal, Special Education Director Dr. Ayesha, and Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chairperson Rubina Mukhtar.
Addressing the seminar, the speakers emphasized that mental health is as important as physical health and stressed the need for accessible healthcare, psychological counselling, emotional support, and effective stress-management strategies. They highlighted the importance of public awareness, institutional cooperation, and equal access to healthcare services for all, including prisoners.
The speakers also noted that prolonged stress can lead to anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and other mental health problems, urging society to promote understanding and support for people facing psychological challenges.
At the conclusion, the distinguished guests planted saplings within the jail premises as part of a tree plantation campaign.
