Lucknow: In an attempt to promote the mental well-being of students, the UP government is set to introduce a Student Mental Health and Well-Being Policy for all higher education institutions across the state.The initiative aims to provide students with a safe, supportive and stress-free academic environment while addressing growing concerns related to mental health among youth. According to officials, the policy seeks to ensure timely support for students facing academic pressure, examination anxiety, career-related stress and emotional challenges.The government is working to establish a coordinated mental health support system at the state, district and institutional levels to make counselling and specialist services more accessible, said a government spokesperson.Under the proposed framework, the higher education director will serve as the nodal and implementing authority at the state level, while a steering committee headed by the principal secretary, Higher Education, will oversee implementation, budget allocation and periodic review. District-level committees under the chairmanship of district magistrates will monitor and coordinate related activities in universities and colleges.One of the key features of the policy is the establishment of a Mental Health Support Cell in every HEI. These cells will provide students with confidential counselling services and connect them with psychologists and other specialists whenever required. The government is also working to introduce an online mental health portal offering preliminary assessment and support facilities, officials said.Teachers, non-teaching staff and student representatives will receive training to identify early signs of stress and emotional distress among students. Awareness campaigns, workshops, sports and cultural activities, career counselling programmes and positive mental health messaging will also be promoted.
