Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre on Wednesday organised an interactive workshop at Wilson college on the subject of sexual awareness, psychological welfare and growing concerns of hair and skin amongst young adults.
Dr. Sudeshna Ray, consultant and coordinator of obstetrics and gynaecology addressed the female students on the subject of sexual diseases, prevention and safe sex. “Adolescents go through numerous mental and physical health issues. Unfortunately, they are afraid to talk to anyone about it especially their parents,” she said.
The male and female students were divided in separate groups.
Dr. Ray said the youth often find it difficult to approach their parents.
“Confronting parents may seem difficult but confronting multiple health issues that may affect you for life must be the priority. It is necessary for teenagers to talk to their parents despite the fear of them getting angered as a parent will always make the best decision for their child,” she said.
Dr. Rohan Sequeira, consultant general physician, who also interacted with the students, said, “Today’s workshop established an environment that encouraged the students to open up.”
Towards the end of the session, students approached experts with questions on alcohol, smoking, drugs and sexual deviation .
A third-year student at the college shared his struggle with depression and stress. “My parents pressurised me heavily around my Class XII board exams. I couldn’t score very well and also failed to get into a decent engineering college. They compared my abilities with that of my cousins and friends and made me feel like a failure,” he said.
The student overcame his psychological issues after joining college. “Coming here provided me with the opportunity to find my niche and pursue my passion such as social work and other extra curricular activities. Our college also has a great counselling centre but one must approach them and use the facility efficiently,” he said.
