The Punjab government, in collaboration with the Tata Institute of Social Science (TISS), Mumbai and AlIMS Mohali, has launched a Mental Health Fellowship to strengthen substance abuse prevention. It’s a two-year fellowship that aims to train 35 professionals. The trainees are from the disciplines of psychology and social work. The goal of this fellowship is to create a workforce that can work in substance abuse prevention, rehabilitation, and treatment across the state.
The fellowship emphasises the role of specialised trained professionals required in the field rather than being solely dependent on measures and guidelines enforced by the government. Thus, it is a significant step in addressing mental health and substance abuse.
Program Details
The training would give fellows a hands-on experience in tackling challenges posed by substance abuse. This would be done by working with colleges and school students, communities and rehabilitation centres. The Program includes training, mentorship, and supervision of the fellows that would be provided by TISS, Mumbai. The outcome of the course is to build leadership qualities and practical skills in order to effectively support communities. The course offers a monthly stipend of Rs. 60,000/-, which is to ensure that participants dedicate themself fully to working with the communities.
Objectives of the Program
The fellows are expected to conduct assessments to identify vulnerable and at-risk individuals, prepare treatment plans, and facilitate rehabilitation. The structure of the fellowship could serve as the benchmark for any future initiatives from the states across India. The format involves integrated prevention, intervention or treatment, and rehabilitation programs.
Experts Perspective
According to professionals in the field of psychology, Research and mental health, these training programs need to be more widespread across India. It’s a sustainable model that would support the well-being of the community in the long run. Addressing substance abuse with a strategic focus on mental health would be beneficial to support vulnerable populations and foster healthier communities. The program represents a mental health community-based intervention integrating research. Therefore, the program is not just a regular training, but it’s one of the first fellowships to focus on mental health and substance abuse. It’s an investment for the youth and families of Punjab, strengthening communities.
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