IT News
Imphal, Feb 10:
The inauguration function of the 24th MANIPSYCON, 2023, the annual conference of the Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS), Manipur State Branch, was held today at the JNIMS auditorium. The theme of the 24th MANIPSYCON, 2023 is ‘conflict and resilience’.
Prof. L. Deben, Director of JNIMS, attended the inaugural session as the Chief Guest, while Prof. K. Shantibala Devi, President of IPS, Manipur State Branch, presided over the function. Prof. Lokeshwor Singh, MS, JNIMS, Prof. Gyaneshwar Sharma, Former HOD of RIMS and JNIMS, and Prof. R.K. Lenin, President of the East Zone IPS, attended as Guests of Honor.
The organizing secretary of the 24th MANIPSYCON, 2023, Dr. Nelson Loitongbam, in his keynote speech, elaborated on the challenges and impact of the crisis on mental health.
“Conflict manifests in various forms, ranging from interpersonal disputes to internal struggles such as self-doubt, anxiety, and existential crises. External conflicts may arise in relationships, workplaces, communities, or broader societal contexts, while internal conflicts often stem from conflicting beliefs, desires, or values within oneself. Regardless of its origin, conflict can provoke stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges,” said Dr. Nelson.
Regarding the impact on mental health, Dr. Nelson said that the psychological toll of conflict can be profound, disrupting one’s sense of stability, security, and self-worth. Persistent exposure to conflict can lead to chronic stress, contributing to the development or exacerbation of mental health disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety disorders. Moreover, unresolved conflicts may erode social support networks and exacerbate feelings of isolation and loneliness, further compromising mental well-being.
“Resilience, often defined as the ability to bounce back from adversity, plays a crucial role in mitigating the negative effects of conflict on mental health. Resilient individuals possess adaptive coping strategies, cognitive flexibility, and a sense of purpose or meaning that enables them to navigate challenges effectively. Rather than viewing conflict as insurmountable obstacles, resilient individuals perceive them as opportunities for growth and learning,” he said.