The self-initiation of Hariwon Municipality in organizing a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Camp had
a significant impact on the lives of many children and adolescents in the area. On 7th May, 164 children,
comprising 52 males and 112 females, benefited from the camp, six of whom were identified with
serious mental health problems such as anxiety, suicidal tendencies, somatic syndrome, and depression.
The municipality supported the affected children with medication and treatment, underscoring the
the critical role that local communities can play in addressing mental health issues.
In addition to the health camp, the municipality also conducted a Child and Adolescent Mental Health
orientation program on 6th, 7th, and 8th of May, attended by 102 participants, including municipal
authorities, political leaders, medical professionals, and teachers. The objective of the program was to
create awareness about the mental health issues that children and adolescents face and equip
attendees with the necessary skills and knowledge to address these issues.
The success of the health camp and orientation is attributable, in part, to the technical support provided
by CWIN-Nepal. Senior Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists, Dr. Arun Raj Kunwar, Child and Adolescent
Psychiatrists Dr. Amit Jha, and Clinical Psychologist Anil Sharma, played instrumental roles in the
initiative, ensuring that the children and adolescents received the best possible care and support.
Mr. Kumar Bhattarai, Program Director and Spokesperson of CWIN-Nepal played a critical role in
coordinating and managing the health camp and orientation, facilitating the smooth running of the
programs, and ensuring that the attendees received adequate support and care. The commitment, hard
work, and dedication of all those involved ensured that the health camp and orientation were a
resounding success.
The impact of the initiative is further amplified by the municipality's decision to establish a telemedicine
service in Sasapur Health Post, enabling patients to remotely access specialized medical professionals
for medication and support. This decision is a testament to the municipality & unwavering commitment
to provide continued support to individuals suffering from mental health issues beyond the health
camp and orientation.
Overall, the self-initiation of Hariwon Municipality has made a profound impact on the mental health of
children and adolescents in the area. By raising awareness and providing crucial support, the
municipality has taken a vital step towards breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and
improving the lives of those affected. The health camp and orientation serve as powerful reminders of
the pivotal role that local communities can play in addressing mental health issues.