Mysuru: Suttur mutt seer Shivarathri Deshikendra Swami voiced concern over the growing incidence of clinical depression and mental health disorders in society. Speaking at an event at the Jagannath Center for Art and Cultural Auditorium in Vijayanagar, he observed that many people fail to recognise symptoms of depression at an early stage and often avoid seeking psychiatric help, resulting in tragic consequences, including suicides.
Appreciation for Mental Health Advocate
Appreciating mental health advocate Cadabam M Ramesh’s contribution to mental healthcare, the seer praised him for acknowledging the guidance of his mentors in his life journey. He stated that gratitude towards those who shape one’s life reflects the essence of Indian culture and values.
JSS Educational Initiatives
The seer revealed that JSS educational institutions have initiated programmes to identify students suffering from depression by training selected teachers to provide counselling and emotional support. He added that the initiative would soon be expanded to rural areas to create greater awareness about mental health.
MP Yaduveer Wadiyar's Remarks
MP Yaduveer Wadiyar remarked that mental health continues to remain a neglected sector in India despite its growing importance. He stressed the need to revive the wisdom and healing practices embedded in Indian culture to address modern mental health challenges.
Former Minister's Call for Prevention
Former minister SA Ramadas emphasised that preventing mental illness through awareness and counselling is more important than merely treating patients after disorders develop. He urged the Cadabams Group to strengthen its outreach programmes from Mysuru and extend mental health awareness to the grassroots level.
The event highlighted the urgent need for collective action to tackle the rising tide of mental health issues, with leaders calling for a cultural shift towards openness and support. The seer’s remarks underscored the importance of early intervention and community-based care, while the MP and former minister echoed the need for integrating traditional wisdom with modern approaches. As the JSS initiative expands, it aims to create a model that can be replicated across the country to address the silent epidemic of depression.
