The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has launched a series of programs aimed at improving mental health awareness and well-being among adolescents, particularly in relation to substance abuse and excessive digital screen use.

Consultant Psychiatrist Dr. Gayani Siriwardena said the programs were being implemented as part of activities organized to mark World Mental Health Day, which falls on October 10. Speaking at a special media briefing at the Ministry of Health and Mass Media today (8), she said adolescents had been identified as an important group requiring greater attention in mental health programs.

The initiatives provide young people with opportunities to discuss their experiences, raise awareness of issues affecting their mental health and develop skills to better cope with challenges, she said.Dr. Siriwardena also said programs were being introduced to strengthen the mental well-being of staff working in challenging environments. A series of programs aimed at supporting such workers is scheduled to be conducted in the coming days, she added.She said the NIMH would continue implementing various programs launched in connection with World Mental Health Day.This year’s World Mental Health Day is being observed under the theme “Listening to Lived Experiences: Real Voices, Real Change.”