Roshini brings students together to break silence on mental health

Hyderabad: Recognising the signs that someone was struggling and reaching out without judgment could make a crucial difference, clinical psychologist Bona Colaco said on Thursday, urging young people to “Ask with Empathy, Care and Take Care”. Colaco was speaking at a programme to mark International Suicide Prevention Day.

Explaining the “ACT” approach, Colaco said the first step was to ask with empathy, without judgment, when someone appeared to be struggling. The second was to care, by listening and validating the person’s emotions, while the third was to take care, including taking care of oneself while supporting others. She said people needed to recognise warning signs such as changes in social interactions and negative self-talk. She also stressed that an individual’s thoughts and actions are within their control, while another person’s thoughts, opinions or feelings towards them cannot be controlled.

The NGO Roshini brought together students and guests at Little Flower High School in Abids on Thursday to mark the day. More than 20 educational institutions participated in the campaign, with nearly 300 students taking part in drawing and skit competitions focused on hope, resilience, emotional well-being and suicide prevention.

DGP, law and order, Mahesh M. Bhagwat urged the younger generation to remain honest, work towards their goals and reach out to friends, family or organisations such as the NGO Roshini whenever they felt the need to talk or share. He recalled how the NGO used to reach to the local police station level while he was with the then Rachakonda commissionerate.

Bro. Anthony P,, Principal of Little Flower High School, said both mental and physical health needed attention to secure a healthy future.

Child development and learning Specialist Shama Lakhani suggested that young people manage stress through activities they enjoy, including listening to music, drawing and painting.

The organisers said the programme aimed to create open conversations around mental health, encourage peer support and reinforce that seeking professional help is a sign of strength.