Mental health priority: NSCBMC first in State to start counselling for well-being of PG students
   Date :22-May-2024

Mental health priority 
 
 
 
 
Staff Reporter
 
 
The administration at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Medical College, has taken a proactive step and has become the first medical college in the State to address the well-being of its postgraduate students by announcing the launch of dedicated counselling sessions. Recognising the unique challenges medical students face, especially those pursuing postgraduate courses, the administration aims to provide essential support to mitigate stress and foster a healthier learning environment. Dean, Dr. Professor Navneet Saxena, threw light on the arduous journey and demanding schedules that postgraduate medical students undertake and said that often they deprive of adequate rest and nutrition, compounded by the emotional strain of handling critical patients. With many students residing in hostels away from their families, the lack of emotional support further exacerbates stress levels.
 
To address these concerns impacts, NSCBMC, institute dedicated counselling sessions tailored to postgraduate students. These sessions are already started within the nurturing environment of the Department of Psychiatry under the guidance of a specialised team comprising consultant psychiatrists, senior residents, and clinical psychologists (counselors) from May 13, 2024. The structured sessions consists of informative lectures on stress management techniques, providing students with valuable insights into coping mechanisms tailored to their unique circumstances. Following this, interactive sessions will be conducted, offering students a safe space to articulate their concerns and seek guidance from experienced professionals.
 
Dean Dr. Navneet Saxena stated that students’ well-being, both academically and emotionally, is the top-priority. The ongoing counseling aims to equip students with necessary tools to navigate the challenges they encounter during their postgraduate studies. Throughout the sessions, students will receive personalised advice on coping strategies tailored to their needs. Those requiring additional support will be encouraged to participate in regular counselling sessions to address specific concerns comprehensively. This initiative underscores NSCBMC's commitment to nurturing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for its students.