“OPPAM” Campaign – Raising Awareness on Parenting, Gadget Addiction, and COVID-19 Aftermaths in Manjeri Municipality Schools

"OPPAM" Campaign – Raising Awareness on Parenting, Gadget Addiction, and COVID-19 Aftermaths in Manjeri Municipality Schools

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Wellness Clinic, in collaboration with Manjeri Municipality, launched a significant awareness campaign named "OPPAM," meaning "Together We." This series of events, aimed at educating and empowering parents, spanned 19 schools across Manjeri Municipality. Running from November 1, 2021, to January 31, 2022, the campaign addressed crucial issues like gadget addiction, effective parenting, and the long-term effects of the pandemic on mental health.

 Inauguration and Dignitaries

The OPPAM campaign was officially inaugurated by Manjeri Municipal Chairperson, VM Subaidha, marking the start of this much-needed initiative. The opening ceremony saw notable participation from community leaders, including the Chairman of the Educational Standing Committee, Abdul Nasar T.M., and Councilor Adv. Beena Joseph, who highlighted the importance of these sessions for parents in the context of evolving challenges.

HMY Higher Secondary School Principal also shared valuable insights on the growing influence of technology on students and the need for vigilant parenting in the digital age.

Key Sessions and Expert Trainers

The campaign featured Mr. Zuhail Babu, an experiential educator and social worker at Wellness Clinic, who led interactive training sessions. He provided parents with practical strategies for managing their children's gadget use and fostering healthy habits. His engaging approach helped parents better understand the psychological impact of excessive screen time and how to support their children in developing a balanced lifestyle.

A central figure in the campaign was Clinical Psychologist Afiya M. Shafi, a well-known lady psychologist at Wellness Clinic. She provided invaluable insights into the mental health challenges brought on by the pandemic and shared coping mechanisms for both parents and children. Her deep understanding of family dynamics and her experience as a counselling psychologist resonated with parents, addressing their concerns about post-pandemic parenting.

The sessions were further enriched by Shahul Hameed, CEO of Wellness Clinic, who emphasized the clinic’s mission of promoting mental wellness in the community.

Campaign Impact

The OPPAM campaign reached over 5,000 parents from diverse backgrounds, making a significant impact on the community. These sessions offered a platform for parents to engage with psychologists in Manjeri and receive guidance on handling their children's digital habits and emotional health. The campaign not only empowered parents to manage gadget addiction and parenting challenges but also provided a strong support system for families dealing with the aftermath of COVID-19.

Conclusion

The OPPAM campaign was a resounding success, highlighting the power of community-driven initiatives. Through collaboration between Wellness Clinic and Manjeri Municipality, thousands of parents gained valuable insights and tools to better navigate the post-pandemic world. The presence of expert psychologists like Afiya M. Shafi, alongside other professionals, ensured that parents received high-quality psychological support throughout the campaign.

For more information about upcoming initiatives by psychologists at Wellness Clinic or to consult with a counselling psychologist in Manjeri, stay connected with our updates.