The Mansik Shakti project is an initiative launched by the Freedom from Poverty Foundation in collaboration with Indo-Canadian partners. It aims to address the pressing issue of student suicide prevention and promote mental health care among students in Uttar Pradesh, India. The project encompasses various components, including research and innovation, knowledge translation, training and education, and public awareness.
More than 10000 students die due to suicide every year in India. Student suicide is a significant problem in that has garnered attention and concern from various stakeholders, including educators, policymakers, parents, and mental health professionals. The high-pressure academic environment, intense competition, and societal expectations place immense stress on students, leading to an alarming number of suicides. Several factors contribute to the student suicide problem in India. Academic pressure is a prominent factor, as students face intense competition to excel in examinations and secure admission to prestigious educational institutions. The emphasis on rote learning, excessive workload, and a focus on grades over holistic development can lead to a tremendous burden on students, triggering feelings of failure, hopelessness, and despair.
This project recognizes the importance of collaboration and seeks to engage experts and stakeholders in different capacities. Under the leadership of Dr. Amresh Srivastava, a renowned psychiatrist and Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry at Western University in Canada, the project aims to develop comprehensive strategies and interventions to prevent student suicides and improve mental well-being. Driven by the Global Alliance for Training and Education in Mental Health, India, the project seeks to provide effective support and resources to students, educators, and the wider community.
We have support from mental health professional’s professional from the field of education, health, medical research, and other branches. We have a developed a panel of advisors, and academic council and group of teaching faculties from prestigious medical and non-medical institutions as well as from voluntary organisation. Retired professors of psychiatry from the King Georges Medical University, Lucknow are amongst our advisors and teachers from the All-India institute of medical sciences, New Delhi, King Georges Medical University, Lucknow, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, JSS university Mysuru, LMTG Medical College, Mumbai and others are amongst the group of teaching faculties.
The Mansik Shakti project holds the vision of creating a society that prioritizes mental health and supports students in their journey towards well-being. By fostering collaboration, research, education, and public awareness, the project aims to tackle the challenges of student suicide and promote mental health care in schools and communities.
Through its comprehensive approach and collaborative efforts, the Mansik Shakti project strives to make a meaningful impact in student mental health, reduce the incidence of suicide, and create a supportive and nurturing environment for students to thrive.
One of the key initiatives of the project is a webinar series designed to empower teachers. Recognizing the critical role teachers play in students’ lives, the webinar series aims to equip educators with knowledge and skills to identify signs of mental distress, provide appropriate support, and create a conducive environment for student well-being. Experts in the field of mental health and education are invited to share their insights and expertise, contributing to the professional development of teachers.
We are soliciting support from Individuals, organization, and social agencies for the cause of student’s mental health.
