Pics: Sumanth Poojary
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Oct 7: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal will host ‘Mental Health Awareness Week’ from October 7 to 12, observing the World Mental Health Day on October 10.
The department of student affairs at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), will organize various events in recognition of World Mental Health Day on October 10. This year’s theme, ‘It’s Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace', highlights the growing need to address mental health in professional environments. This initiative is designed to benefit the entire MAHE community, including students, staff, and the general public.
Lieutenant general (Dr) M D Venkatesh, vice chancellor of MAHE, addressing the media in the press meet held on October 7, reinforced the institution's dedication to prioritizing mental health, particularly in the workplace. “A healthy mind is essential for a productive work environment. At MAHE, we are committed to creating a culture that fosters mental well-being for all members of our community. This will undoubtedly lead to better academic and professional outcomes. Every year MAHE celebrates mental health day by organizing various events. Nowadays more and more people are encountering mental health issues in various forms; therefore, it is very essential to provide our employee activities.”
Dr Sharath Rao, pro vice chancellor of Health Sciences at MAHE, emphasized the significance of the initiative: “Mental health awareness is a cornerstone of a healthy community. At MAHE, we aim to be at the forefront of fostering mental well-being not just within the university, but in the broader community as well. These efforts reflect our commitment to making mental health a priority in all aspects of life, including the workplace. Mental health is not merely a disease. Mental health is a large part of health, affecting children to elderly people. It is our huge responsibility to give importance to mental health. Nowadays in students we see mental health problems. Therefore, there is a need to bring awareness about it.”
Dr Geetha Maiya, professor, department of CSE, MIT, and director, department of student affairs, welcomed the gathering and gave an overview of the planned activities, stating, “At MAHE, we believe that mental health is integral to the success of our community. The events planned during mental health awareness week aim to create lasting change by encouraging open conversations and educating people on how to support mental well-being in all areas of life, particularly in the workplace.”
This focus on mental health awareness aligns with World Mental Health Day, which will be observed globally on October 10th, with support from the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO and its partners highlight the critical role that safe and supportive work environments play in protecting mental health.
One of the major highlights of the week is the 'Marathon for Mental Health', scheduled for October 10 at 4 PM. Open to students, staff, and the public, this marathon aims to raise awareness and unite the community around the cause of mental health. A promo run was organized on October 8 by MAHE employees. The marathon run begins from edu building passing through Pharmacy college, coin circle, syndicate circle, KMC greens and ends at edu building. More than thousand people have registered for the marathon. Additionally, a mental health awareness workshop will take place on October 11, offering participants practical tools and strategies to promote well-being in the workplace.
In addition to on-campus events, community outreach programmes will be held across Udupi district to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. The awareness programme will be held in various institutes of MAHE university. These efforts, driven by student leaders and volunteers from various departments, aim to deepen public understanding and promote proactive support for mental well-being.
Chief operating officer of MAHE Manipal Dr Raviraja N S, director finance MAHE Manipal Saraswathi K Bhat, extended their best wishes for the mental health awareness week.
Dr Aravind Pandey deputy director, Student Affairs, MAHE, proposed the vote of thanks.
Deputy director academics Dr Raghavendra, Prof Roshan David Jathanna, deputy directors of student affairs Dr Rashmi Yogesh Pai, chief operating office MAHE Dr Raviraj N S, Saraswathi K Bhat, Vinod and MAHE student counsellors were present during the event.