O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), in an unparalleled initiative in India, has partnered with Sukoon Health, India’s #1 mental health hospital chain launched a mental health center within the university premises. This pioneering step marks a significant advancement in addressing mental health challenges faced by college students.

“At O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), our priority is the overall growth and emotional well-being of our students, faculty and staff members. We have joined hands with India’s leading mental healthcare provider – ‘Sukoon Health’, whose values and vision align with our priorities for the mental healthcare of our community. Together with our Centre for Wellness and Counselling Services (CWCS), Sukoon brings a compassionate team of professionals and years of proven experience to provide the highest quality mental health care and excellent clinical oversight treatment which we are focused on providing to our community members. With this partnership, JGU aims to ensure easy access to mental health care services, thereby fostering a community that prioritises mental health and promotes emotional prosperity, “ said  Prof. (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar, Vice Chancellor, O.P. Jindal Global University

“In response to the growing recognition of mental health concerns among college students, JGU has taken a proactive approach by providing easily accessible and comprehensive mental health services to our community. Therefore, we are delighted to welcome Sukoon to our campus, in addition to our existing Centre for Wellness and Counselling Services. Sukoon is equipped with private counseling rooms and group therapy spaces, which will greatly contribute to the mental health and well-being of our JGU community members. Our aim is to provide JGU students with hands-on and most professional support and we eagerly anticipate a fruitful and enduring partnership with Sukoon at JGU,” said Prof. Dabiru Sridhar Patnaik, Professor and Registrar, O.P. Jindal Global University.

“Sukoon Health takes pride in announcing the association with O.P Jindal Global University to set up a first-of-its-kind, comprehensive mental health care set up on a university campus, making world-class mental health services accessible to students. The service, which is designed around student mental health, apart from providing assessment, counseling, therapy and medical treatments, includes several unique initiatives like preventative strategies, awareness sessions, self-help sessions, managing academic stress, resilience building, relationship management, early screening, crisis intervention, suicide prevention strategies etc. The campus services are backed by Sukoon’s specialist emergency services, inpatient psychiatric facility and rehabilitation services for addiction problems. We look forward to empowering the youth at JGU to prevent, recognise and deal with any mental health issues so that they can unleash their true potential and grow into resilient & happy individuals,” said Dr Satish Ramaiah, Executive Director of Psychiatry Services, Sukoon Health.

Recent studies highlight a growing mental health crisis in educational institutions. Students face increased risks of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues due to a confluence of factors. These include academic pressures, competitive exam stress, societal expectations, and a lack of robust mental health education and resources. Additionally, the stigma associated with mental health can prevent open discussions and seeking help, exacerbating the situation.

An internal survey at JGU also reveals that while 90% of students acknowledge the reality of mental health concerns, a staggering 52% feel a lack of access to necessary services. With 90% believing that college students today are grappling with more mental health issues than ever before, the Sukoon center will serve as a beacon of support. 30% of students have sought professional help, 66% are aware of peers struggling with substance abuse, and 81% report that they or their peers struggle with mental health concerns. These insights and innumerable studies by experts underscore the growing need for mental health support among students, emphasizing the importance of expert guidance to cope with mental health disorders.

Sukoon’s offerings at JGU include:

Professional Support: The team consists of qualified and compassionate counselors, therapists, and mental health professionals committed to supporting student’s mental health journey. Sukoon Health will provide family therapy services as well.

Confidential Counseling: All interactions with Sukoon Health’s staff will be kept strictly confidential, ensuring a safe environment for the students to express themselves freely.

Screening Service: To monitor the mental health of all individuals and help with early intervention, there will be a screening service on campus.

Empowering Workshops: In addition to one-on-one counseling, they will also be offering workshops and events aimed at promoting mental health awareness, building resilience, and fostering a supportive community on campus.