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Prioritizing Mental Health in Education


 Prioritizing Mental Health in Education: A Conversation with Dr. Palak Gupta Bowry

In a time when the pressures of academics, social life, and an ever-changing world weigh heavily on our children, mental health has emerged as a crucial concern in the educational landscape. Dr. Palak Gupta Bowry, Director of CSR at Innocent Hearts Group, recently spoke with The Tribune about the significance of promoting mental wellness among students, emphasizing the need for schools to become nurturing environments that support both academic and emotional development.

Understanding the Need for Mental Health Support in Schools

Mental health issues like anxiety, stress, and depression are no longer rare occurrences among children and teenagers. According to global and national surveys, students are facing rising levels of emotional distress due to competition, uncertainty, social media exposure, and post-pandemic adjustments. Dr. Palak Gupta Bowry rightly points out that without addressing mental well-being, we risk failing even the brightest academic minds.

"We must normalize conversations around mental health just as we do with physical health. A happy mind learns better, lives better, and contributes better to society," she stated.

IHGI's Holistic Approach to Student Wellness

At Innocent Hearts Group of Institutions (IHGI), mental health isn't an afterthought — it's an essential part of the curriculum and school culture. From the primary level onward, students have access to:

  • Professional Counseling Services

  • Emotional Wellness Workshops

  • Mindfulness and Meditation Sessions

  • Open Dialogues and Mental Health Awareness Weeks

These initiatives create safe spaces where students can speak freely about their emotions, learn coping strategies, and build resilience.

A Support System Beyond the Classroom

Teachers at IHGI are trained to identify early signs of emotional distress. They work closely with school counselors and parents to provide timely intervention. Regular interactions, wellness checks, and positive reinforcement are part of the school's inclusive strategy.

Moreover, IHGI conducts parental awareness sessions to help families understand the psychological needs of their children and encourage empathy, patience, and active communication at home.

Emotional Strength is Academic Strength

Contrary to outdated beliefs that equate academic success with strict discipline alone, research shows that students perform better when they feel emotionally secure and valued. Dr. Palak adds, "We are seeing a positive change in classroom behavior, participation, and creativity among students who feel mentally supported."

She advocates for mental health to be woven into the curriculum itself — through activities like:

  • Creative Expression (Art, Music, Theater)

  • Team Building Exercises

  • Life Skills Education

  • Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

These strategies not only help reduce stress but also equip students with the tools to thrive in challenging environments.

Community Engagement and CSR Impact

As part of IHGI’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Dr. Palak Gupta Bowry leads initiatives that extend mental wellness beyond the school gates. Collaborating with NGOs, healthcare professionals, and government bodies, IHGI organizes:

  • Free Mental Health Camps

  • Webinars and Seminars on Adolescent Psychology

  • Community Awareness Drives

These efforts aim to destigmatize mental health issues and promote emotional literacy in the wider society.

Building a Better Future, One Mind at a Time

Dr. Palak’s message is clear: Mental wellness is the foundation of a strong, compassionate, and forward-thinking generation. As the world becomes more complex, children need more than just academic guidance — they need emotional anchors.

By championing student mental health, IHGI sets an example for schools across India to rethink success, not just in terms of grades and achievements, but in terms of emotional intelligence, self-worth, and lifelong well-being.


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