Share your story and shine at JK Monitor!🌟 Welcome to JK Monitor, where every story matters and every achievement is celebrated! We invite you to share the remarkable journey of your life and showcase your accomplishments to the world. Join our exclusive interviews that honor exceptional individuals just like you. JAMMU: To promote mental health awareness among students and encourage them to seek counselling without hesitation, the Directorate of Internal Quality Assurance (DIQA), University of Jammu, has launched a series of awareness sessions titled ‘Your Mind Matters’. The first session was organised for students of The Business School, School of Hospitality and Tourism Management and ICccR & HRM at the Convention Hall, The Business School, University of Jammu.
The initiative is in line with the vision of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai, who has consistently emphasised the importance of students' overall development and well-being alongside academic excellence. Through this initiative, the University aims to make counselling services more accessible, encourage students to seek help at an early stage and provide a safe and supportive environment where they can discuss their concerns without fear or hesitation.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ginny Dogra, Director, DIQA and Officiating Director, Mental Health and Counselling Unit, said that the establishment of the Mental Health and Counselling Unit at the University Health Centre and the launch of the awareness series were important steps towards addressing the mental and emotional well-being of students. She said that while academic development remains a priority, equal attention needs to be given to the emotional challenges and pressures faced by students during their academic journey.
Dr. Dogra informed that the awareness sessions would not remain limited to students but would also be organised for parents, faculty members and non-teaching staff of the University. She said the objective was to create greater awareness about mental health, encourage open discussions and ensure that members of the University community feel comfortable seeking help whenever required. She also stressed the need to develop a campus environment where mental health concerns are understood and addressed with sensitivity and empathy.
During the interactive session, Ms. Shweta Jain, Counsellor, discussed various aspects of mental health, emotional well-being, stress management and the importance of maintaining a balance between academic responsibilities and personal life. She explained how academic pressure, personal concerns and everyday challenges can affect students' emotional health and highlighted the importance of recognising these difficulties rather than ignoring them.
Ms. Jain encouraged students to communicate openly about their concerns, practise self-care and develop healthy ways of dealing with stress. She also discussed practical coping strategies and the importance of seeking professional guidance when faced with emotional difficulties. Referring to the hesitation and social stigma often associated with counselling, she emphasised that seeking help should be viewed as a positive step towards taking care of one's mental health. She further said that emotional well-being plays an important role in personal growth, academic performance and the ability to deal with challenges in life.
Earlier, Er. Ameet Targotra, Assistant Director, DIQA, welcomed the guests, counsellor and participating students. He introduced Ms. Shweta Jain and highlighted the importance of organising such sessions within the University. He said that awareness about mental health was essential for creating an academic environment where students feel supported and are encouraged to discuss their concerns openly.
The programme also highlighted the importance of the Mental Health and Counselling Unit established at the University Health Centre, which provides students access to professional counselling support. The awareness series is intended to familiarise students and other stakeholders with the available support services and encourage them to seek timely assistance without hesitation or stigma. Prof. Amisha Gupta, Director, The Business School, extended logistical support for the successful organisation of the programme.
