online interactive session was conducted for 20 volunteers from SARVAM’s project villages in cooperation with Shanti Ashram, Coimbatore, by a senior trainer on ‘Managing stress, improving decision making and ensuring mental wellbeing among adolescents.’

Worldwide, 10–20% of children and adolescents experience mental disorders. Half of all mental illnesses begin by age 14, three-quarters by the mid-20s. Neuropsychiatric conditions are the leading cause of disability in young people in all regions. If untreated, these conditions severely influence the development of the children, their educational attainments, and their potential to live fulfilling and productive lives.

Children with mental disorders face significant challenges with stigma, isolation, and discrimination, and lack of access to health care and education facilities, violating their fundamental human rights, states WHO.

This introductory session highlighted some signs and symptoms of stress, some myths, and the stigma associated with mental health issues. It provided insights and practical know-how to adolescent boys’ and girls’ mental health and emotional well-being.

The trainer explained the steps to mental well-being for adolescents. She explained that connecting with good people is important for adults’ mental well-being, and being physically active is important as well. Furthermore, she told adolescents to be ready to learn new skills and to always be present in the present moment.

Furthermore, she recommended listening to music, watching good TV programs, practising relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, gardening, and playing with pets to improve mental health.

A short video on how to get deep sleep was played during the session, which was very much useful for the participants.

Mr. Vijayaragavan from Shanti Ashram led a question-and-answer session which clarified all the doubts of the participants.