In a significant move to combat the growing mental health challenges among schoolchildren, Chandigarh witnessed a crucial workshop focused on cultivating psychological wellness and preventing student suicides. The event, organized by the Chandigarh Citizens Foundation in collaboration with the Chandigarh administration, brought together key stakeholders to address this pressing issue.
Stakeholders Unite for Student Mental Wellness
More than 150 participants including teachers, counsellors, and parents from government schools across the city attended the Friday workshop. The gathering highlighted the urgent need for timely intervention, increased awareness, and robust support systems to counter the rising cases of emotional distress and suicidal tendencies among young students.
During the inaugural session, Bindu Arora, deputy director of school education, commended the foundation's efforts and expressed confidence that coordinated action between parents, educators, and mental health professionals could bring about positive transformation in student mental health outcomes.
Expert Insights and Practical Solutions
The workshop featured interactive sessions led by prominent mental health experts including Dr. Ajeet K Sidana, head of GMCH-32's psychiatry department, and Dr. Krishan Kumar Soni, additional professor at PGI's psychiatry department. Both specialists emphasized recognizing early warning signs such as anxiety, depression, and behavioral changes, while encouraging schools to implement proactive detection and referral mechanisms.
Clinical psychologist Navneet Kaur from GMCH-32 presented real-life case studies that sparked detailed discussions on managing mental health crises within school environments. The second session saw parents of students facing mental health challenges sharing personal experiences, while counsellors demonstrated evidence-based screening tools and therapeutic interventions.
Building a Comprehensive Support Ecosystem
Teachers contributed valuable insights regarding classroom behavior observations, emphasizing the importance of peer support groups and normalizing conversations around emotional well-being. Participants proposed strengthening existing initiatives through:
- Enhanced peer mentoring programs
- Regular mindfulness and yoga sessions
- 24/7 support helplines
- Compulsory mental health training for educators
- Partnerships with professional psychologists
- Curriculum modules focused on coping skills and resilience-building
Balamurugan, IAS, general secretary of Chandigarh Citizens Foundation, announced the formation of a core committee comprising mental health experts and education stakeholders. This committee will collaborate with the education department to design long-term programs and school-based interventions.
The Foundation, which represents over 200 professionals across 12 focus groups, continues to drive impactful public initiatives in the Tricity region. The workshop concluded with unanimous agreement to build a supportive ecosystem for students and ensure that mental health becomes an integral component of education rather than an afterthought.
