Panjab University focuses on students’ mental health and well-being

Panjab University (PU) is taking steps to improve students' mental health by appointing another counsellor. The university already has one mental health counsellor, but due to the increasing number of students facing stress and anxiety, a second counsellor will be hired soon.

An advertisement for this position has been released by the Dean Students Welfare (DSW) office, and applications are open until February 28. The new counsellor will work four hours a day, and their position will initially last until May 2025. If approved by the Vice-Chancellor (VC), the job may continue beyond that.

Psychiatrist to help with serious cases

Along with hiring a new counsellor, PU is also planning to bring in a part-time psychiatrist. This psychiatrist will handle serious cases, while the two counsellors will provide follow-up support. Officials are also working to include funding for mental health services in the university’s upcoming budget.

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PU’s current counsellor, Pulkita Wadhwa, has already made mental health services more accessible. She allows students to reach out through Google Forms, making it easier for them to express their concerns. She is available at the DSW building from 2 pm to 6 pm on weekdays.

Many students struggle with adjusting to university life, especially those from different states. Some students face cultural differences, while others deal with loneliness and anxiety. PU is also working on mental health awareness by organizing events and outreach programs in hostels.

To promote well-being, the university is also hiring a yoga instructor. Interviews for this position will take place on February 17, and officials hope to finalize the appointment by the end of this month.