(Image source from: x.com/MoHFW_INDIA)

Deepika Padukone, a well-known actress and the creator of The Live Love Laugh (LLL) Foundation, has been named the first ‘Mental Health Ambassador’ by the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW). This news came after her trip to Chhindwara District in Madhya Pradesh on World Mental Health Day, where she posted a video that emphasized the significance of mental health.

This important action by the Ministry seeks to create a more supportive environment for mental health across India and marks a major move towards reducing the stigma around discussions about mental health. During the event, J.P. Nadda, the Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, stated, “Our collaboration with Deepika Padukone will enhance awareness about mental health challenges in India, make discussions about them more normal, and highlight that mental health is a crucial aspect of public health.”

 

 

 

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As she celebrated the 10th anniversary of her foundation, Padukone reminisced about her journey, explaining how The Live Love Laugh Foundation has diligently worked to raise awareness and drive change, even when facing doubts regarding her own mental health issues. Feeling thankful, she expressed, “I am truly honored to be the first Mental Health Ambassador for the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guidance, India has made great strides in putting mental health care first. I am eager to work with the Ministry to build on this progress and further enhance our country's mental health system.” In her new position, Padukone will partner with the Ministry to increase awareness, lessen stigma, and promote seeking help. She will also advocate for Tele MANAS (Tele-Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States) and other mental health resources endorsed by the government. Moreover, she will assist the Ministry in creating strategies to ensure fair access to mental health care nationwide.

In the last ten years, Live Love Laugh has positively influenced over 21,900 individuals living with mental illness (PWMIs) and their supporters through its Rural Community Mental Health Program, which operates in 15 districts in eight states. The foundation has also initiated several groundbreaking programs, such as “Dobara Poocho," “NotAshamed," “You Are Not Alone" (targeted at teenagers), and the “Doctors Program" for general practitioners. Recently, it introduced a corporate mental health and wellness program, furthering its mission to promote a mentally healthier India.