Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 14^th October, 2025, Rashtriya Raksha University, Lavad, Gandhinagar – School of Behavioural Sciences & Forensic Investigations, Rashtriya Raksha University celebrated World Mental Health week through various activities. The theme of the World Mental Health Day was “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”

1. Awareness Discussions and Free Flow Writing to observe Mental Health Day at Forensic Mental Health Services Cell of Sabarmati Central Prison

The Psychologists of Rashtriya Raksha University conducted an Awareness Session focused on candid discussion surrounding mental health with the inmates. Following that inmates were encouraged to write their thoughts around mental health in a free flow manner to encourage creative expression, the inmates wrote about their experiences and thoughts towards encouraging other inmates for availing the psychological services within the prison aligning with the World Mental Health Day theme for 2025 - Access to Services. One of the inmates wrote a short story on the theme “This life is a Gift” the story concluded on a learning note ‘we should strive to be happy with what we have so we can live and enjoy our lives’.  Participation outcomes such as these are truly rewarding as a psychologist and highlight the importance of Mental Health Discussions in Prison Settings.

2. Mental Health Day Observation at Sabarmati Central Prison from 8/10/2025 to 10/10/2025

Mental Health Day observation by psychologists of RRU with the aim of promoting mental well-being and awareness among inmates. The program commenced with a session on understanding what mental health is and the importance of Mental Health Day followed by a discussion on common mental health issues faced by inmates in their daily lives, such as stress, anxiety, and isolation. Interactive games were then organized, designed as self-help tools to manage stress, and the session concluded with inmates sharing one positive habit about themselves. Creative activities like poster-making and essay writing were conducted, encouraging inmates to express through art and writing the practices that help them maintain their mental health creative expression activities, where inmates shared that colouring brought them peace and positivity—one participant remarked, “Life has become colourful again.”. The final day, 10/10/25, focused on educating inmates about common mental health problems and equipping them with self-help strategies like mindfulness breathing. A psychoeducation session was also held to inform participants about when and where to seek professional help, reinforcing the importance of timely support. The event across all three facilities was well-received and provided a safe space for awareness, expression, and emotional growth.

3. Self-Expression Activity at Vadodara Central Prison on 8-10-2025 and 10-10-2025

The psychologists of Rashtriya Raksha University’s Psycho-Social Care Centre conducted innovative emotional well-being activities at Vadodara Central Prison, aimed at promoting self-expression and emotional awareness among inmates. The Self-Expression Activity, centered around emojis, emotional situations, and feelings-based discussions, encouraged participants to creatively explore and articulate their emotions through relatable symbols and real-life scenarios. The initiative provided a safe and engaging platform to enhance empathy, emotional intelligence, stress reduction, and self-reflection.

Complementing this, a Snake and Ladder Activity was organized to foster positive emotions and relaxation in a light-hearted manner. By invoking feelings of nostalgia and joy associated with the classic game, participants were able to temporarily disconnect from daily stressors and experience the therapeutic benefits of play. These initiatives reflect Rashtriya Raksha University’s continued commitment to reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration within correctional settings.

4. Mindfulness Meditation and Dance Movements Therapy at Lajpor Central Prison – Surat 10-10-2025

A Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness lecture was conducted at Lajpore Central Prison, Surat, for undertrial male inmates below the age of 25 years. The session focused on helping young inmates understand emotional well-being, develop positive coping strategies, and identify early signs of distress. It also aimed to create a safe and supportive space where they could openly discuss mental health challenges and learn practical tools for managing stress, anger, and anxiety.

To complement this initiative, a Mindfulness Meditation session was organized to help participants experience calmness, self-awareness, and emotional regulation through guided breathing and grounding techniques.

In the female yard, a Dance and Movement Therapy session was conducted to encourage self-expression, body awareness, and emotional release through creative movement. The activity enabled participants to connect with themselves and others in a non-verbal yet deeply meaningful way.

Overall, these initiatives reflected a holistic and empathetic approach towards mental health and rehabilitation, promoting emotional resilience, self-reflection, and well-being within the prison environment.

5. Awareness Programs and Musical Chair Activity at Rajkot Central Prison 10-10-2025

On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, a joint initiative by Rajkot Central Prison and Rashtriya Raksha University has organized “World Mental Health Week”. During this period, various awareness programs, recreational competitions, and informative lectures are being conducted to strengthen the mental well-being of inmates.

The week commenced today, on 10th October 2025, with an inaugural address by Senior Jailer Shri B. B. Parmar. This was followed by an insightful lecture on “How to Maintain Mental Health Inside the Prison” delivered by Forensic Psychologist Mr. Rajat M. Mishra and Psychiatrist Dr. Haresh Barvalia.

After the session, a Musical Chair game competition was organized for the inmates to promote relaxation, joy, and a sense of positive engagement among them.

So far, more than 200 inmates have registered to enthusiastically participate in the various activities scheduled throughout the week. The observance of World Mental Health Week marks a positive step toward fostering self-confidence, optimism, and mental health

6. World Mental Health Day celebration “Manotsav 2.0” at Rashtriya Raksha University, Gujarat campus on 10^th October, 2025.

The students of School of Behvaioural Sciences & Forensic Investigations organised Manotsav 2.0 to celebrate world mental health day. Students arranged various cultural activities to spread awareness regarding importance of mental health.

 

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