Psychiatric Society of Goa

The Psychiatric Society of Goa firmly believes that people with mental illness when adequately treated are capable of holding and working on responsible jobs; they can be sincere, honest and productive employees.

Objectives of the Psychiatric Society of Goa

To promote and advance the subject of Psychiatry & allied sciences in all their different branches & to promote the improvement of the Mental Health of the people and mental health education.  
To promote prevention, control, treatment and relief of all psychiatric disabilities.
To formulate and advice on the standards of education and training for medical and  auxiliary personnel in psychiatry and to recommend adequate teaching facilities in Goa  
To promote research in the field of Psychiatry, Psychology and Mental Health in the state of  Goa.  
To propagate the principles of Psychiatry and current development in psychiatric thought, in  Goa.
To deal with any matter relating to mental health concerning in Goa.
To safeguard the interest of Psychiatrists, Psychologists and allied personnel involved in  Mental health and fellow professionals in Goa.  
To promote ethical standards in the practice of Psychiatry in Goa.

Message from

Dr Wenona Fernandes

Mental illness is often marked with stigma which remains a huge barrier to receiving help. Responsible members of public and organizations have a duty to ensure that persons suffering from mental illness are not prejudiced or marginalized.

Print and electronic media are powerful mediums which can positively influence public opinion and bring about a change in the way society treats mentally ill. Another important aspect being the sensitivity with which the deaths by suicide are depicted in the news items. One should not reveal the identity of the victim and sensationalise the unfortunate event; it is important that the aggrieved family members are not further traumatized.

The Psychiatric Society of Goa hence has decided to institute an annual award to acknowledge progressive and sensitive reporting in print and electronic media.