Government Medical College Anantnag Conducts One-Day CME Programme on Psychiatry in General Practice

Anantnag, July 3, 2024: The Department of Psychiatry at Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag today conducted a one-day Continuous Medical Education (CME) programme focused on “Psychiatry in General Practice” at the Main Campus in Dialgam, Anantnag.

Prof. Dr. Rukhsana Najeeb, Principal of GMC Anantnag, congratulated the Department of Psychiatry for organizing such an informative CME. In her address, she emphasized the critical importance of mental health in current times, particularly given the rising stress levels due to various factors. She highlighted the need for healthcare professionals to stay updated of the latest developments in psychiatry so as to provide comprehensive care to their patients. Dr. Rukhsana commended the department for selecting highly relevant topics and for fostering an environment of learning and discussion.

Dr. Mansoor Ahmad, Head of the Department of Psychiatry at GMC Anantnag, welcomed delegates and speakers from across the Kashmir Division. He underscored the objective of the CME to bring mental health issues to the forefront, facilitating better management and treatment strategies.

The programme featured several esteemed speakers:

Dr. Fazl-e-Roub, Consultant at GMC Srinagar, delivered a lecture on “Suicide: Role of Different Stakeholders,” addressing the critical roles various sectors play in suicide prevention.

Prof. (Dr.) Yasir Hassan Rather, Senior Consultant at GMC Srinagar, gave an in-depth presentation on “Drug Abuse in Kashmir,” exploring the pressing issue of substance abuse in the region.

Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Maqbool Dar, Head of the Department of Psychiatry at GMC Srinagar, offered a thought-provoking lecture on “Depression: A Non-Psychiatrist’s Perspective,” providing insights for general practitioners.

A panel discussion on “Mental Health in Kashmir” featured Prof. (Dr.) Mushtaq A. Margoob (Ex HOD), Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Lone (Head of the Department of Medicine, GMC Anantnag), and Dr. Majid Shafi Shah (Consultant Psychiatrist and In-charge NMH). The discussion delved into the unique mental health challenges faced in the region and strategies for improvement.

Additional lectures included:

Dr. Tajamul Hussain, HOD Psychiatry, GMC Baramulla, discussed “Very Young Onset Frontotemporal Dementia: What a Psychiatrist/Internist Should Look For,” highlighting early diagnosis and management.

Dr. Rehana Amin, HOD Psychiatry, GMC Handwara, provided valuable insights on managing “Agitated Patients in Casualty,” emphasizing practical approaches for emergency settings.

It is pertinent to mention that GMC Anantnag remains actively involved in various Continuous Medical Education programmes, ensuring practitioners stay updated with the latest medical advancements worldwide. The CME was attended by faculty members, consultants, medical officers, and delegates from across the Kashmir Division.

Dr. Owvass H. Dar
Spokesperson, GMC Anantnag