As part of India’s 80th Independence Day celebrations and in line with the work distribution directives issued by the DC Kohima, Lions International Club Kohima visited the State Mental Health Institute Kohima (SMHIK) and distributed gifts while interacting with the patients and medical staff on Saturday.
During the goodwill visit, Club President, Lion Er Talitemsu Jamir referred to the global Lions motto “We Serve” and said true health requires care for both the body and the mind.
He told patients that they are seen, valued and not alone. “It takes immense courage to focus on your healing. Your journey matters, and your community supports you,” Jamir said.
“We brought a few tokens of support today to remind everyone inside these walls that you are a vital part of our community,” he added, acknowledging the doctors, nurses and staff for their dedication, patience and empathy that make recovery possible.
Psychiatric Nurse Kezhano Kenna-o informed that SMHIK offers both IPD and OPD services. As Nagaland’s premier government-run mental health facility, the hospital provides comprehensive clinical care.
The OPD caters to initial consultations, mental health screenings, and regular follow-ups, while patients are seen for evaluations and specialized psychiatric care. The IPD provides 24-hour medical supervision, dedicated psychiatric care, and structured rehabilitation for individuals requiring short-term or long-term hospitalization due to severe mental illness.
Emergency services are available 24/7 to handle critical crisis interventions and urgent mental health concerns. The Tele-MANAS Cell attached at SMHIK also provides free and strictly confidential tele-mental health services. Individuals can seek remote counseling and psychological support by calling the toll-free number 14416
The District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), implemented under the National Health Mission (NHM), is functioning in several districts across Nagaland to cater to mental health needs. The programme has been extended to key regional districts to decentralize psychiatric care.
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Speaking during the programme, Senior Lion Meren Paul drew from the Bible and reminded inmates that Jesus is all-merciful, urging them to look to Him for healing. He said acts of kindness are recognized by God and appreciated the good services rendered to the patients, downtrodden and needy, distributing copies of the New Testament with Psalms and Proverbs to inmates and staff.
Club Secretary, Lion Max Marius Menuse-O, while extending greetings on the occasion, noted that many inmates were youth. He encouraged them, saying that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that coming to the institute reflects courage.
Further, extending wishes for speedy recovery and expressing hope to see them contribute to society in small or big ways, Lion Max also thanked the medical personnel and staff for their service and compassion with which they care for the patients.
Club Second Vice President, Lion Akhrienuo Kire stressed the importance of inclusivity in the society and urged inmates to come forward without hesitation and express themselves through hobbies or by seeking help when needed, reminding that everyone is there for one another.
A mother also shared that her son, who has been struggling with depression for four years, is gradually recovering since being admitted to the centre.
During the visit, it was observed that the road leading to the institute has been in poor condition for a long time, causing inconvenience to commuters.
The infrastructure was also found to require upgradation. Improved provision of nutrition, quality medicines and manpower would help ensure better care of patients at the facility.
