Journalist’s workshop in Gangtok promotes responsible reporting on mental health

HISHEY WANGDI

GANGTOK,: On the occasion of World Health Day, a two-day workshop on sensitive and responsible reporting for mental health promotion for media professionals started today in Gangtok.

The workshop is organised by Press Club of Sikkim in collaboration with Sikkim INSPIRES.

The workshop aimed to promote responsible and sensitive reporting practices on mental health issues in the media. Speakers highlighted the importance of ethical journalism, discouraging the use of stigmatizing language, and ensuring accurate and balanced coverage of mental health topics.

The chief guest, Deputy Speaker Raj Kumari Thapa, addressed the gathering and spoke on the importance of mental health awareness. She praised the efforts of Sikkim Inspires for their dedicated work in the field of mental health in the State. She also underscored the critical role of responsible media reporting, highlighting that the choice of words and content used in news reports can significantly influence public perception and must be handled with care and sensitivity.

The opening session was also addressed by IPR chairman Ashit Rai, STDC chairman LukendraRasaily, Chief Minister’s press secretary YouganTamang, IPR secretary Anapurna Allay and Sikkim INSPIRES project director Rohini Pradhan.

The speakers shared their perspectives on the role of media in promoting mental health awareness and stressed the need for sensitivity, accuracy, and responsibility while reporting on such issues.