Rotary Club of Dona Paula and the Psychiatric Society of Goa are proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership aimed at improving access to mental health services in Goa. These two esteemed organisations had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on various initiatives in the field of mental health. The culmination of this partnership is ‘Project Asha,’ an initiative that will provide free mental health consultations to those in need across four cities in Goa: Panaji, Porvorim, Vasco, and Margao.
This significant initiative, launched on October 4, serves as a tribute to World Mental Health Day, celebrated globally on October 10. It highlights the importance of raising awareness and advocating for improved mental health care, making ‘Project Asha’ a poignant reminder of the commitment to address the mental health needs of the community.
The event, held on October 4, marked the official launch of ‘Project Asha’ and featured insightful remarks from both organisations’ leaders. Gaurav Kenkre, President of the Rotary Club of Dona Paula, emphasised the pressing need to eliminate barriers preventing individuals from accessing mental health professionals. Among these barriers, cost stands out prominently, and it is one of the key issues that ‘Project Asha’ aims to address.
Kenkre stated, “Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and no one should be deprived of the care they need due to financial constraints. Project Asha is our commitment to breaking down these barriers and ensuring that mental health services are accessible to all, irrespective of their financial situation.”
The President of the Psychiatric Society of Goa echoed these sentiments and outlined the organisation’s theme for the year: “To ensure that access to mental health professionals is now a right rather than a privilege. Mental health is a critical aspect of our well-being, and it’s heartening to see organisations like Rotary Club of Dona Paula and the Psychiatric Society of Goa taking proactive steps to ensure that mental health support is readily available. Our team of doctors is committed to providing compassionate and professional care to those who need it the most.”
Project Asha will be spearheaded by four dedicated doctors, each stationed in one of the four major cities in Goa namely: Dr Akshada Amonkar – Panaji, Dr Jaiprada Kanekar – Porvorim, Dr Ravindra Agrawal – Vasco and Dr Veena Hegde – Margao. These medical professionals will provide free mental health consultations to individuals who may be facing psychological challenges and are in need of professional support. By establishing consultation centers in Panaji, Porvorim, Vasco, and Margao, Project Asha aims to cover a wide geographical area and cater to a diverse population.
The initiative not only addresses the financial barrier but also recognizes the importance of proximity and accessibility in seeking help for mental health concerns. Patients will be able to easily reach these centers, reducing the geographical barriers that can often deter individuals from seeking help.
The collaboration between the Rotary Club of Dona Paula and the Psychiatric Society of Goa is a testament to the power of collective action in addressing pressing societal issues. By pooling their resources, expertise, and passion for mental health, these organisations are making a tangible difference in the lives of the people of Goa.
As part of the project’s launch, an awareness campaign will be rolled out across the four cities, highlighting the importance of mental health and the services offered by Project Asha. Information about how to access free mental health consultations will also be made readily available to the public.
In addition to providing direct mental health services, Project Asha will actively collaborate with schools, colleges, community organizations, and local authorities to raise awareness about mental health issues, reduce stigma, and promote overall wellbeing in the community. Through a series of workshops, seminars, and awareness programs, the project aims to create a more inclusive and understanding society when it comes to mental health.
The Rotary Club of Dona Paula and the Psychiatric Society of Goa are proud to be at the forefront of this initiative, and they invite individuals, businesses, and organizations from all sectors to join hands in supporting Project Asha. By coming together, we can ensure that mental health becomes a fundamental right for all, and no one has to suffer in silence, states a press communique.
