Listening Without Judgment: Vikramaditya University Champions Mental Health Awareness in Ujjain

Campus outreach programme highlights lived experiences, evidence-based approaches and the urgent need to break social stigma surrounding mental health

(SDNA) Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh: Meaningful conversations and greater sensitivity towards people experiencing mental health challenges can become powerful drivers of social change. Emphasising this message, representatives of Samrat Vikramaditya University, Ujjain, participated in a campus outreach programme organised at Manovikas College of Special Education, run by the Madhya Pradesh Viklang Sahayata Samiti, on the occasion of International Mental Health Day.

The programme revolved around the theme “Heard Experiences: Real Voices, Real Change,” focusing on the importance of listening to personal experiences, challenging misconceptions and building a more supportive environment for people facing mental health difficulties.

University Delegation Engages in Meaningful Dialogue

Under the guidance of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Arpan Bhardwaj, the university delegation included Prof. Dr. Dharmendra Mehta, Director and Dean of the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Business Management, and Prof. Dr. Kamran Sultan, Chairman of the Board of Studies in Management.

During their visit, the delegates presented a token of appreciation to the institution’s representatives and held detailed discussions with Father Jijo George and Father Sebastian Badekal on various aspects of mental health awareness, support systems and institutional responsibilities.

The interaction provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives on strengthening mental health initiatives through education, research and community engagement.

Research and Innovation Must Guide Mental Health Services

In his message of goodwill, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Arpan Bhardwaj appreciated the institution’s work in specialised education and training. He stressed that decisions concerning mental health services should be guided by research-based evidence, innovative thinking and practical approaches.

He highlighted the importance of translating knowledge into effective action so that mental health challenges can be addressed more efficiently and support can reach those who need it.

The emphasis on evidence-based approaches underscored the need for institutions to move beyond awareness campaigns and work towards meaningful, outcome-oriented interventions.

Breaking the Silence Around Mental Health

Institution Director Father Jijo George, Finance Manager Father Sebastian Badekal and Prof. Dr. Dharmendra Mehta highlighted that mental well-being is an integral component of overall health.

They stressed that social hesitation, discrimination and negative stereotypes often prevent people from openly discussing their difficulties or seeking professional assistance. Creating an atmosphere of trust and acceptance, they noted, is essential to encouraging individuals to seek timely help.

The speakers also underlined the importance of listening carefully and empathetically to people experiencing mental health concerns. Understanding their emotions, personal circumstances and lived experiences can help improve the quality of care and ensure that support is better aligned with individual needs.

A Shared Responsibility for a More Supportive Society

The outreach programme reinforced the message that mental health awareness cannot remain the responsibility of healthcare professionals alone. Families, educational institutions and the wider community all have an important role in creating an environment where individuals feel safe discussing their concerns without fear of judgment.

The central takeaway was clear: real change begins when society learns to listen, understand and respond with compassion. Timely support, informed decision-making and open conversations can help challenge stigma and strengthen the foundations of a more inclusive and mentally healthier society.

(SDNA) | Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh