FIT & Mpower: Why We Need Safe Spaces to Talk About Mental Health

It is a truth universally acknowledged that the first and most crucial step in tackling issues of mental health is talking about it.

With that common understanding, FIT met with Neerja Birla, Founder and Chairperson of MPower and Dr Sapna Bangar and Dr Ambrish Dharmadhikari from the organisation to discuss a wide range of topics ranging from social media addiction in teens, to the apparent rise of anxiety issues for people in their 20s, to suicidal tendencies and self-care.

We are trying to create awareness, alleviate stigma and just create a dialogue about mental wellness so that we can normalise the taboo around mental health issues. Once we get people talking about it, we have to close the loop somewhere. They need to have a place to come to, which is what we provide as the next step. 

Neerja Birla 

MPower is an Aditya Birla Education Trust initiative created with the aim of championing mental health causes, spreading awareness and providing quality care to mental health patients through a multi-disciplinary approach across sections of society.

With the first vertical of the organisation being spreading awareness and the second being providing quality care to those in need, what remains then is reaching out to those who can’t afford any of this, but often lead harsher lives which take a bigger toll on their minds. The third vertical of MPower is a Foundation, which seeks to provide all these services but to those lesser privileged. Because the right to lead a dignified life, one in good physical and mental health, is not a luxury reserved for the few. It was, and remains a right for all.

Camera: Sanjoy Deb

Editor: Deepthi Ramadas