Kolkata, 10th October 2025: On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass, organize an insightful panel discussion dedicated to promoting emotional well-being, inner peace, and meaningful connection among the elderly.
The interactive session, moderated by Dr. Kunal Sarkar, Director – Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery, Manipal Hospital, Mukundapur Cluster, and Ms. Sohini Saha, Consultant – Psychologist, Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass, witnessed the participation of leading experts including Dr. Abir Mukherjee, Consultant – Psychiatry, Manipal Hospital, Mukundapur; Dr. Arijit Dutta Chowdhury, Consultant – Psychiatry, Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass; and Dr. Anuttama Banerjee, Consultant – Psychologist, Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass.
The discussion focused on the unique emotional and psychological challenges faced by the elderly in today’s fast-paced, fragmented society and emphasized the importance of empathy, mindfulness, and social connection to enhance emotional health in later life.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Abir Mukherjee said,
“With improved healthcare and longer life expectancy, India’s elderly population is growing rapidly. While this is a positive sign of progress, it also brings new challenges — including depression, anxiety, dementia, and social isolation. Lack of awareness, stigma, and insufficient professional support often worsen these issues. It’s time we, as a society, foster empathy, early recognition, and collective support to help our elderly age with dignity, purpose, and emotional well-being.”
Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Arijit Dutta Chowdhury added,
“With the rise in life expectancy, age-related mental health conditions like dementia, depression, and anxiety are becoming increasingly common. Early diagnosis and timely intervention—through medication and psychotherapy—can significantly improve the quality of life and emotional health of elderly individuals.”
Sharing her perspective, Dr. Anuttama Banerjee stated,
“Old age is not a disease but a natural, individual phase of life. As caregivers and family members, our responsibility is to create a compassionate environment that helps seniors navigate this stage with confidence and respect, without over-pathologizing or infantilizing them.”
Moderator Ms. Sohini Saha emphasized the need to destigmatize mental health conversations, saying,
“Mental health is a universal right. Our elderly deserve care, dignity, and emotional fulfillment. True wellness comes from balance—where one feels valued, heard, and connected. Families, caregivers, and communities must come together to build safe, empathetic spaces where emotional struggles are acknowledged and addressed.”
