In a significant move to combat rising anxiety among young people, a dedicated team of mental health professionals in Ranchi has launched a structured, free-of-cost awareness program targeting schools and other institutions.
Multidisciplinary Team Volunteers for Youth Wellness
The initiative is powered by a group of 12 to 14 practising experts who volunteer their time beyond their regular work. The team includes neuropsychologists, psychiatric social workers, clinical and medical psychologists, educational counsellors, special educators, along with yoga, meditation, and speech therapy specialists. Omi Singh, one of the members, emphasised that all services are provided completely free to those in need.
From a Small Start to Over 10,000 Sessions
What began in 2014 with just three or four professionals has grown into a large-scale effort. Anupriya Kumar, another team member, revealed that they have conducted more than 10,000 awareness programs across various schools and institutions over the years. The primary focus has been in Ranchi, with a strong emphasis on sensitising teachers to identify early warning signs of mental health issues in students.
The program aims not only to assist students directly but also to educate teachers and parents. It helps them understand the emotional and psychological factors behind fear, distress, school avoidance, and falling grades. The activists point out that many behavioural problems in children are often mislabelled as mere indiscipline, when they could be linked to underlying conditions such as:
- Anxiety and stress-related disorders
- Learning disorders
- Attention deficit issues
- Mood disorders
Clarifying Myths and Extending to Corporates
Omi Singh further explained that the program seeks to build clear awareness about the difference between normal stress, anxiety, and clinical depression—terms frequently misused in daily conversation. The team's work has also expanded to include sessions with corporate houses.
The impact is evident in personal stories. Amrita Singh, a college student preparing for competitive exams, shared her experience: "I used to struggle with my studies and had no routine. The team understood my challenges and guided me step by step. Today, I follow a proper routine and feel more focused and confident."
This pioneering initiative in Jharkhand's capital stands as a crucial community-driven model, addressing the often-overlooked mental wellness of India's youth by empowering the entire ecosystem around them.
