World · India Bureau
Kerala psychiatrists launch campaign to break mental health stigma
On World Suicide Prevention Day, the Indian Psychiatric Society's Kerala chapter unveiled a new initiative to normalise conversations around mental wellbeing and encourage people to seek professional support without fear or shame.
LSN India ·
The Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS) Kerala chapter has launched 'Susmitham – Mind Your Mind, Mental Health Matters', a campaign designed to destigmatise mental health issues and foster open dialogue in society. The initiative was unveiled on World Suicide Prevention Awareness Day, coinciding with global efforts to address the growing mental health crisis.
The campaign seeks to address a critical gap in India's approach to mental wellbeing. Despite rising rates of mental health disorders, social stigma continues to deter individuals from seeking timely professional intervention. The IPS Kerala chapter recognised that breaking down these barriers through increased awareness and normalised conversations is essential to preventing tragedies and improving overall public health outcomes.
'Susmitham' aims to position mental health as an integral component of overall wellness rather than a taboo subject. By encouraging open discussions about psychological struggles, the campaign hopes to create a supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to reach out for help without fear of social judgment or discrimination.
Mental health professionals emphasise that early intervention and professional support play crucial roles in managing psychological conditions and preventing suicide. The campaign represents a proactive step by the psychiatric community to shift societal attitudes and ensure that mental healthcare is accessible and destigmatised across Kerala and beyond.