Mental Health Awareness Program

Rotary Club of Chitwan organized a Mental Health Awareness Program as part of its 1820 Weekly Regular Meeting at Bharatpur Garden Hotel, Bharatpur, Chitwan, on 21 August 2026 (5 Bhadra 2083). The program was chaired by Rtn. Gehendra Man Shrestha, President, and aimed to increase awareness about mental health, reduce stigma and misconceptions, and encourage people to openly discuss mental health concerns and seek timely professional support.
The keynote speaker, Dr. Srijana Bhurtel, MD Psychiatrist, emphasized the importance of creating an environment where people can openly express their mental health concerns. She noted that mental health and psychological problems are still viewed from a narrow perspective in Nepali society and encouraged individuals experiencing such problems to seek timely counseling and professional treatment. She also highlighted the potential negative impact of insensitive social media coverage of suicide incidents and stressed the need for responsible communication and accurate information on mental health and suicide.
Rtn. Bhanu Sharma, Past President and Council Chair of Rotary Club of Chitwan, discussed the growing burden of mental health problems and suicide in Nepal and globally. He emphasized the need for community-level awareness campaigns and greater involvement of social workers and community advocates in addressing mental health challenges. He also highlighted the increasing need for trained mental health counselors in Nepal and the shortage of adequate human resources in this sector.
The program included an interactive question-and-answer session, where Dr. Bhurtel addressed participants’ queries related to mental health, psychological well-being and professional support. Rotarians, spouses and visiting Rotarian participated in the session. At the conclusion, Rotary Club of Chitwan presented Dr. Srijana Bhurtel with a Token of Love in appreciation of her valuable contribution.
The program highlighted the importance of giving greater priority to mental health at the government and community levels and encouraged more open and informed dialogue on mental health. Organized in line with Rotary’s commitment to mental health and well-being, the session contributed to reducing stigma and promoting a more supportive and mentally healthy community.