Page 16 - The Indian EYE 010325

NORTH AMERICAN Newsline JANUARY 03, 2025 | The Indian Eye 16

IAPAC Gala Focuses on Addressing the

Mental Health Crisis in America

OUR BUREAU
Houston, TX

he Indian American Pub-
lic Affairs Council (IAPAC)
Thosted its annual gala at the
Junior League of Houston, focusing
on the urgent issue of mental health
in America. Themed “Addressing the
Mental Health Crisis in America,”
the event brought together over 220
attendees, including policymakers,
healthcare professionals, and com-
munity leaders, to foster dialogue
and inspire collective action in tack-
ling this critical challenge.
The evening opened with a stir-
ring rendition of the U.S. and Indian
national anthems by Sharan Thind,
followed by a warm welcome from
Dr. Roopa Gir, President of IAPAC.
Dr. Gir highlighted the importance
of reducing stigma and creating cul-
turally relevant solutions to address
the mental health challenges facing
diverse communities.
A keynote address, delivered via
video by Dr. Rahul Gupta, National
Director for Drug Policy at the White
House, set the tone for the evening.
Dr. Gupta’s remarks explored the in-
tersection of mental health and sub-
stance use, emphasizing the urgency
of tackling these issues with both
compassion and immediate action.
His call to action resonated deep-
ly with the audience, establishing a
strong foundation for the evening’s
discussions.
The emotional highlight of the
evening came from Anagha Suren-
dran, who courageously shared her
personal journey of overcoming
OCD and mental health struggles.
Her powerful account deeply moved
attendees, underscoring the critical
need for support, understanding, and
expanded access to mental health
care. A standing ovation followed,
reflecting the profound impact of her
story.
A panel discussion featuring Sen- Young remarked, “Fostering conver- community, stating, “Mental health by VIVA. This artistic performance
ator Manka Dhingra, Wayne Young sations about mental health is exactly is as important to discuss as other visually captured the emotional spec-
(CEO of the Harris Center for Men- how we reduce stigma and help indi- health issues like cholesterol or heart trum of mental health, offering a pro-
tal Health), and Stephen Glazier, viduals seek support when they need disease.” found reflection on the complexity of
Ph.D. (Behavioral Health Expert, it most.” The evening also featured a cre- human emotions.
UT Health), focused on actionable Senator Dhingra emphasized ative fashion show inspired by the To add levity to the evening, Dr.
solutions for reducing stigma and the importance of addressing mental “nine rasas” (human emotions), with Shehzaad Batliwala’s stand-up com-
improving mental health care. Dr. health within the Indian American models wearing traditional designs Continued on next page... >>

www.TheIndianEYE.com