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Pras Ramluggun

Northumbria University, UK

Presentation Title:

Stronger together: Building a resilient mental health community for a brighter future

Abstract

In the wake of escalating global mental health challenges and precarious access to mental health services, especially the deleterious impact of the pandemic to mental health in the post-COVID-19 era, it has become more imperative than ever to foster a resilient and inclusive mental health community. This keynote speech delves into the essential role that collaboration plays in enhancing mental health services. It emphasises the importance of maintaining trust with communities and building stronger connections with service users to create more sustainable, compassionate care systems. 
Highlighting the significance of resilience within the helping profession, the speech underscores the necessity of embedding self-care practices into the daily routines of mental health professionals. It also explores how a united, collective approach to mental health can pave the way for a brighter future—one where mental health care is accessible, supportive, and tailored to the needs of all individuals. 
By breaking the stigma surrounding mental ill health, promoting well-being, and providing individuals with the necessary tools and support to thrive, this vision aims to foster not only a resilient workforce but also a more resilient society. Central to this message is the idea that mental health care should become a shared responsibility, where agency is promoted, and self-care practices are prioritised. Additionally, the vision emphasises the importance of educating individuals about the impact of their language and choices around mental health, while also striving to enhance mental wellbeing across all sectors. This holistic approach supports both individual empowerment and societal change.

Biography

Pras Ramluggun is an associate professor in mental health and wellbeing at Northumbria University and a senior fellow of the Advance Higher Education Academy. His clinical research is primarily focused on the management of self-harm and improving the physical health outcomes for individuals living with severe mental illness. In the realm of education, his pedagogical research is dedicated to fostering emotional intelligence, resilience, and mental well-being among students. His vision is to equip future professionals in the helping professions with the skills and tools necessary to succeed in demanding, high-pressure environments. He firmly believes that addressing students mental well-being is essential to maximizing their success both during their university journey and in their professional careers. His research and teaching accomplishments have been widely recognized, earning him multiple accolades. Notably, his publication on student nurses’ fear of providing care during the COVID-19 pandemic garnered national attention after being featured in the news. He has an extensive body of work, including numerous academic papers, editorials, and book chapters. As a regular reviewer for several high-impact journals, he also serves on the editorial advisory boards of both national and international publications, solidifying his influence in the field of mental health and education.