Strap: Actor and UNDP India Youth Champion, Sanjana Sanghi engages with college students on the issue of mental health

To raise awareness, promote dialogue, and advocate for improved and unbiased mental health support for the youth, UNDP India and the Lady Shri Ram College for Women organized a discussion on mental health and well-being among young people this week.

Mental health is essential to lead fulfilling lives and contribute actively to society. Yet one in eight people around the world lives with a mental health condition, with women and young people being disproportionately impacted.

The panel discussion, titled “Mind Matters: A Mental Health Conversation” featured UNDP India’s Youth Champion and Actor, Sanjana Sanghi, UNDP Resident Representative in India, Shoko Noda and other experts from the field of mental health.

Speaking at her alma mater, Sanjana said, “When we encounter pressures of life, be it your college or your working life, it is important to realise that workaholism is not the answer. Being inspired and driven is key, but knowing where to draw the line is equally important.  We take pride in putting ourselves through the rigours of life at the cost of our mental health. I think it is important to understand that balance is key.”

Over 300 students from the Lady Sri Ram College joined the discussion and engaged actively with the panellists on issues of identity, stigma, mental health resources and psycho-social support.

A recent survey by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) revealed that nearly 150 million Indians require mental healthcare services, yet fewer than 30 million are seeking help. The National Mental Health Survey (2015-16) reported an average prevalence of 7.3 percent of mental disorders among Indians aged 13-17 years. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated this issue.

UNDP Resident Representative in India, Shoko Noda, reminded young people that mental health is a basic human right for all people. “People – especially the youth – should not be scared to speak openly about mental health. It is your right to be protected from mental health risks, your right to good quality care, and to inclusion in the community.”