Trivandrum, India. LIAT Catholic Centre, Kazhakootam, and Santhwana Rehabilitation Centre, Puthenthope, two centres of the St. Thomas Province, jointly organised a walkathon titled “Walk with Otta Mind” (Walk with One Mind) on 10 October, marking World Mental Health Day. The initiative aimed to raise public awareness about mental health, promote understanding and acceptance, and express solidarity with people experiencing mental health challenges.
The walkathon was flagged off by Ms. Lekha K. C., former world boxing champion and recipient of the Dhyan Chand Award. The event was attended by Mr. Jose Nicholas, President of Kadinamkulam Grama Panchayat, along with ward members Mr. Kadinamkulam Joy, Mr. Antony Finu, and Ms. Dorin. The youth of Trivandrum also actively collaborated in organising the programme, demonstrating their commitment to promoting mental health awareness and social inclusion.
Around 200 participants joined the 5.5-kilometre walk, including residents of Santhwana Rehabilitation Centre, who walked alongside other participants in a meaningful expression of unity, acceptance, and mutual support.
The initiative highlighted the importance of creating a compassionate and inclusive society where individuals facing mental health challenges are treated with dignity, understanding, and care. By walking together, participants conveyed a message that mental well-being is a shared concern and that no one should feel isolated or excluded because of mental health difficulties.
Through this initiative, St. Thomas Province reaffirmed its commitment to promoting human dignity, compassion, and solidarity, encouraging communities to overcome stigma, foster acceptance, and accompany those experiencing mental health challenges with understanding and care.
