Students turn artists to champion mental health

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

Messages on mental health, stress management and self-acceptance took centre stage as students used paintings and posters to remind adults that emotional well-being deserves as much attention as academic success.

The displays were part of the concluding ceremony of Rotary's year-long PEP-UP Mental Well-being Project in Hyderabad. Messages such as "Children's brains are not Google", "You don't have to do everything at once" and "Handle pressure, don't let it handle you" highlighted the pressures faced by young people. Students emphasised the importance of adequate sleep, limiting screen time, outdoor activities, hobbies, taking breaks and seeking help when necessary.

Some offered thoughtful reflections, including "The same mind which worries is also the mind which dreams" and "Pause is part of progress". Others reminded viewers that every child's journey is unique and that slow progress is still progress. The posters also stressed that children are more than their report cards and need encouragement and emotional support rather than constant comparisons.

The Rs. 33-lakh initiative, undertaken by the Rotary Club of Hyderabad Mavericks, reached 3,207 students aged 13–21 across eight government and private educational institutions. Of the 2,686 students screened, 574 were identified as requiring additional attention. Following counselling and support, 503 moved into the Green Zone, while 71 continue to receive care.

The Rotary Club of Livermore was the international sponsor, with Manojagrithi and Sudisha Counselling Centre supporting implementation and counselling.

The event also saw the launch of MINDPOD, a mental well-being app for students, and a practical Well-being Toolkit. The project included awareness sessions, screening, group counselling and individual support.