**Training Program on SMD for CHW & Medseller**

A comprehensive three-day training program was conducted at BRAC Centre Inn, Mohakhali, focused on Severe Mental Disorders (SMD) for Community Health Workers (CHW) and Medicine Sellers. Led by prominent psychiatrists including Dr. Tanjir Rashid Soron, Dr. Md. Rahanul Islam, and Dr. Md. Tayabur Rahman Royal, the sessions aimed to enhance collaboration and awareness regarding mental health issues in Bangladesh.

**Day 1:**

The training commenced with participant registration and introductions, emphasizing mutual respect and interaction guidelines. Dr. Tanjir Rashid Soron initiated discussions on mental health in Bangladesh, highlighting the misrepresentation of mental illness in media. Videos were shown to illustrate societal challenges faced by mental health patients.

Dr. Rahanul Islam subsequently addressed substance abuse and its link with mental disorders, discussing common drugs and their impact on personal and social life. The day concluded with sessions on common mental disorders prevalent in slums, and serious mental disorders presented by Dr. Tayabur Rahman Royal.

**Day 2:**

Participants engaged in case-based learning sessions led by Dr. Tanjir Rashid Soron, focusing on schizophrenia and bipolar mood disorder. Interactive activities included symptom identification through storytelling and role-plays simulating patient-care scenarios. Essential caregiving skills were discussed, emphasizing participant involvement and skill development as CHWs.

**Day 3:**

The closing ceremony featured Dr. Saidur Rahman Mashreky from North South University, acknowledging participants' achievements. Certificates were distributed, followed by informal assessments and group discussions on program feedback and future steps.

Overall, the training program successfully equipped CHWs and Medsellers with essential knowledge and skills to effectively address SMD in their communities, promoting awareness and support for mental health issues in Bangladesh.