As awareness of mental health grows, schools are recognizing its crucial role in students’ overall well-being. With academic pressures, social challenges, and personal issues impacting young minds, addressing mental health has become more important than ever. Many students are dealing with stress, anxiety, and concerns like women’s safety, all of which can affect their academic performance and emotional resilience.
In response, schools have introduced daily mental health support sessions, creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where students can openly discuss their feelings and challenges. These peer-led discussions are designed to raise awareness about mental health, reduce stigma, and build a supportive community. By encouraging students to share their experiences, schools aim to foster a culture of understanding and empathy.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that students not only succeed academically but also develop the emotional tools needed to thrive. With mental health becoming a priority, schools are committed to nurturing both the minds and hearts of their students, helping them grow into resilient and compassionate individuals.
Satabdi Bhattacharjee, Principal of South City International School said, “As a school, we are committed to prioritizing the mental health and well-being of our students. Our sessions provide a safe, non-judgmental space where students can openly share their feelings, address stress, and discuss critical issues like women’s safety. These conversations not only help raise awareness about mental health but also break down barriers of stigma. By fostering a supportive community, we empower our students to grow emotionally resilient and compassionate, which is essential for their holistic development.”
Craig Anthony Lucas, Principal of G.D. Birla Centre for Education: The need for mental health awareness and safety of girls and women are no longer an afterthought but a priority. At G.D. Birla Centre for Education, we have formed committees consisting of student Council members, school Counsellors and teachers to cater to these ballooning needs. Empathetic counselling sessions, skits at morning assemblies and value-added lessons help spread awareness as well as closely monitor and care for these issues, Principal of GD Birla Centre for Education Craig Anthony Lucas said.
Sonali Sarkar, Principal of Mahadev Birla Shishu Vihar: “We’ve established committees with teachers, counsellors, and student council members to provide students with a platform to openly discuss sensitive issues. Peer-led support groups are instrumental in reducing the stigma around mental health and fostering a strong sense of community. Soon, we’ll launch an ‘Association Club,’ where students can share their concerns with peers. Selected psychology students will participate, helping to build empathy and strengthen peer relationships, encouraging problem-solving and emotional growth.”
Atreyee Sengupta Principal of Ashok Hall Higher Secondary School: “In today’s competitive environment, prioritizing students’ emotional well-being is essential. We’ve set up committees with school leadership, counsellors, and the student council to create a safe space for students to share their experiences. Along with peer-led support, we offer awareness programs, group and individual counselling, and a variety of clubs where students can express themselves. Our psychology students also gain practical exposure through visits to Antara Hospital and internships at Fortis and other mental health organizations. These initiatives ensure our students are emotionally resilient and well-prepared for the future.”