In conjunction with the celebration of World Mental Health Day 2023, the Kegalle District Psychological Counseling Program was held yesterday (21) at Mawanella Ilma Festival Hall under the leadership of Mrs. Dinisha S Ratnayake, Kegalle Additional District Secretary (Administration).

The program was held aiming at about 150 staff officers of the District Secretariat, Divisional Secretaries, Assistant Divisional Secretaries, Field Officers, Counseling Officers, Social Service Officers, Officers of Government and Non-Government Institutions, Police Officers with the aim of mental well-being in difficult times and guidance for a balanced life in the future. 

In parallel with this program, the e-magazine was launched through the website of the district secretary's office.

Ms. Kanti Hettigoda, Senior Lecturer, Clinical Psychologist, Department of Psychology, University of Peradeniya gave a lecture on internet and computer addiction and Dr. Nipuna Ranaweera, a specialist psychiatrist at Mawanella Hospital, gave a lecture on how to maintain mental well-being in difficult times.

A scholarly lecture was also held here with the participation of resource persons, who delivered the lectures, and Ms. P.V.S. Gunathilaka, a psychiatrist at the Kegalle District Medical Officer's Office, and Mr. M.M.Iqbal, the Kegalle District Psychiatry Consultant.

The theater group led by Mr. Mahesh Amarakon of the Warakapola Regional Secretariat presented a play showing the collapse of the family corporation due to misuse of the Internet, entertaining the audience.

A program with practical activities was also conducted by the Kandy District Psychology Counseling Officer team under the theme Theater therapy as a guide to promote mental well-being.

This program was organized by Kegalle District Psychology Counselor M. B.M. Iqbal. It was held with the support of non-governmental organizations by the organization of the Counseling Division of the District Secretariat including the psychological counselors of the Divisional Secretariats.