How institutions in T.N. keep mental health awareness alive all year

Institutions across Tamil Nadu are actively promoting mental health awareness throughout the year, not just during World Mental Health Day on October 10. One example is the Centre for Environment Studies at Women’s Christian College, which organizes community gardening and forest bathing activities for students. These practices aim to foster harmony and mental well-being among students.

Another initiative is the Department of Social Work (Mental Health) at Madras School of Social Work in Egmore. They train second-year students to serve as peer supporters in mental health. This program helps students develop essential skills to recognize and respond to early signs of mental distress, thereby promoting accessibility, affordability, and availability of mental health support within the educational system.

The faculty is also planning to extend this training to 20 colleges in Chennai, creating mental health ambassadors in these institutions.

Gratitude walls are another method being used by CTTE College for Women in Perambur to boost mental health awareness. These walls are set up every two to three months, providing students with a space to express gratitude for the things they appreciate in life. This activity is designed to reduce stress, improve mood, and strengthen relationships.

The psychology department at CTTE College also runs a mental health and wellness club, which conducts various therapeutic activities such as music, sand, and movement-based exercises to address mental health issues. Additionally, teenagers at Chettinad Vidyashram are part of a volunteer peer support initiative called the "Young Helper Project."

This year-long program empowers students to speak up, reach out for help, and tackle mental health stigma. The sessions are engaging and tailored to different age groups, often incorporating play-based activities or personal story-sharing to encourage open conversations about mental health.

Lastly, Women’s Christian College on College Road in Chennai emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of nature through outdoor activities. Community gardening and forest bathing are promoted as ways to improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance overall mood. By allowing students to work at their own pace in the garden and engaging them in slow, mindful experiences in the forest, the college encourages holistic mental well-being.