Better Lives – Addressing Schizophrenia Together”

CHRISTIAN MEDICAL COLLEGE & HOSPITAL, LUDHIANA

World Schizophrenia Day observed at CMC & Hospital, Ludhiana Theme: “Early Intervention:

In observance of World Schizophrenia Day (May 24), the Psychiatry Department and Mental Health Nursing Department of the College of Nursing, Christian Medical College & Hospital, Ludhiana,

organized awareness events to promote early intervention in schizophrenia. A quiz competition was held on May 24 for nursing students to enhance their understanding of the disorder, followed by an awareness program on May 26 at the Psychiatry OPD, where healthcare professionals educated attendees about symptoms, treatment options, and the importance of early diagnosis.

This program was organized under the able guidance and support of Dr. Harjit, Principal, College of Nursing, whose visionary leadership has been instrumental in promoting mental health initiatives within the institution. The formal event began with a soulful invocation song by B.Sc. Nursing 1 st Semester

students, followed by an opening prayer led by Rev. Nithin Cherian from the Fellowship Department,

setting a reflective and reverent tone for the day.

The event was graced by Dr. Allen Joseph, Medical Superintendent, CMC & Hospital, Ludhiana, as

the Chief Guest, who appreciated the departments’ efforts in addressing the stigma surrounding mental

illness and fostering a culture of empathy and care. Dr. Mamta Singla, Professor and Head- Department of Psychiatry, unfolded the theme for 2025 – “Early Intervention: Better Lives – Addressing Schizophrenia Together” – emphasizing the importance of recognizing early symptoms, timely intervention, and coordinated care in improving outcomes for individuals living with schizophrenia.

A major attraction of the event was a Poster Competition in which B.Sc. Nursing 5 th Semester and GNM 2nd Year students presented insightful and creative posters on schizophrenia. The competition was

coordinated under the mentorship of Dr. Neeta Austin Singha, Head, Department of Mental Health

Nursing and Mrs. Pritika Samson, Nursing Tutor, College of Nursing, CMC & H, Ludhiana. Posters

were evaluated by an esteemed panel of judges: Dr. Pallavi, Associate Professor, Department of

Psychiatry; Prof. Ritu P. Naihar, Vice principal; and Prof. Balqis Victor, HOD of OBG Nursing Department. The winners were felicitated with prizes and certificates:

 First Prize: Ms. Geesa Moncen

 Second Prize: Ms. Khushi B.Sc. 5 th semester

 Third Prize: Ms. Amy Rajiv Victor

The event concluded with a warm Vote of Thanks by Dr. Neeta Austin Singha, who acknowledged the

efforts of faculty, students, and staff in making the event meaningful and impactful. The multi-day observance served as a comprehensive effort to enhance awareness, educate future healthcare providers, and engage the community in supportive care for individuals with schizophrenia.