Kamala Nehru College Hosts Psychogenesis ’26 to Promote Mental Health Awareness and Empathy

Held under the leadership of college principal Prof. (Dr.) Pavitra Bharadwaj, the event centred on the theme “Listening to Lived Experiences: Real Voices, Real Change.” It aimed to challenge the stigma associated with mental health and create a platform for individuals to share their experiences of navigating psychological challenges.

The event was supported by Heart Out, Monginis as the food partner, PsychoStoreEco as the gifting partner and Sach Kahoon as the media partner.

AIIMS Professor Delivers Keynote Address

The keynote address, titled “Voices That Matter,” was delivered by Prof. Rachana Bhargava, Professor of Clinical Psychology at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional experience, Prof. Bhargava highlighted the importance of recognising signs of psychological distress among peers. She also discussed the therapeutic value of empathetic listening and the need to normalise open conversations about mental health.

The address emphasised that listening without judgement can help people feel understood and supported when they are experiencing psychological difficulties.

Panel Discussion Highlights Lived Experiences and Peer Support

A panel discussion brought together professionals working in mental health awareness, community support and child welfare.

The panel featured:

• Dr. Mona Sharma, founder of the Manorathi Foundation

• Ms. Rajeshwari, founder of the Shanti Sahaj Trust

• Dr. Divya Kumar, associated with Shakti Shalini

Dr. Mona Sharma highlighted the significance of peer support across different age groups and its role in helping individuals navigate challenges.

Ms. Rajeshwari, who works to raise awareness about schizophrenia, stressed the importance of family acceptance, understanding and a positive outlook in an individual's recovery.

Adding a personal perspective to the discussion, her daughter, Madhu, shared her lived experiences, offering an account of struggle, resilience and hope.

Understanding the Person Beyond the Diagnosis

Dr. Divya Kumar, former chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee, drew attention to how institutional processes can sometimes overlook individuals' actual experiences and needs.

Using an illustrative example, she emphasised the importance of recognising people as individuals rather than defining them solely by their diagnoses or difficulties.

The discussion reinforced a central message: understand the person behind the problem before addressing the problem itself.

The panel encouraged participants to consider how empathy, attentive listening and a better understanding of individual circumstances can contribute to more supportive responses to mental health challenges.

Inter-College Photovoice Competition Encourages Creative Expression

Psychogenesis ’26 also featured an inter-college Photovoice Competition, which encouraged participants to communicate lived experiences, emotions and social realities through photography.

The competition provided a creative platform for students to express perspectives that may not always be conveyed through conventional discussions. By connecting visual storytelling with social realities, the activity complemented the event's focus on authentic voices and lived experiences.

Promoting Empathy, Inclusion and Mental Health Awareness

Psychogenesis ’26 reaffirmed the Department of Psychology's commitment to promoting mental health awareness, empathy and inclusivity.

The event highlighted the importance of creating spaces where people can share their experiences without fear of judgement or stigma. Through the keynote address, panel discussion and photography competition, participants explored how listening attentively and respecting individual experiences can contribute to meaningful social change.

The central message of the event was that empathetic listening and understanding are essential first steps towards a more inclusive and supportive society.