Mental health training held to rebuild resilience after July uprising

A special training workshop focused on mental health recovery following the July 2024 mass uprising was held today (Wednesday) at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in the capital, aiming to equip young leaders with trauma-informed tools to support communities nationwide.

Jointly organised by the Bangladesh Association of Psychiatrists (BAP), the National Institute of Mental Health and Hospital (NIMH), and mental health advocacy platform HopeWave, the four-hour workshop brought together students, youth leaders, and community advocates from various universities.

The programme was designed to train facilitators capable of delivering psychosocial support, compassionate leadership, and trauma-informed practices—crucial skills for community healing in the post-crisis period.
Speaking at the event, Professor Dr Mahbubur Rahman, Director of the National Institute of Mental Health, said, "Many people have gone through deep psychological trauma after the July incident. Today's training, one year later, is an important organised step. We are hopeful that the participants will come forward to help others mentally, in addition to keeping themselves healthy."

BAP Member Secretary Professor Dr Nizam Uddin stressed the urgency of collective mental health care. "The mind is the source of all power. Focused mental care for the injured and martyrs has become the demand of the hour. Unless we awaken our values and humanity and take care of mental health as a nation, sustainable development is not possible," he said.

HopeWave founder Munimah Mahreen added, "Mental health is still neglected in Bangladesh, yet it is closely linked to personal and professional success. Such workshops are very effective in increasing the mental capacity of young people. We want this initiative to be expanded further."

The organisers consider the workshop a first step in fostering a trauma-aware, inclusive, and resilient Bangladesh. They hope that the trained participants will act as community catalysts, spreading awareness and support throughout the country.