The Department of Psychiatry, JSS Medical College, Mysuru, will launch its ‘Psychological First Aid’ programme in Kannada in a function at JSS Hospital on January 6.A statement here cited the National Mental Health Survey (NHMS) 2015-16, which revealed that 15% of India’s adult population experiences mental health issues that require intervention.“And 70 to 92% of people with mental disorders do not receive proper treatment owing to lack of awareness, stigma, and shortage of professionals,” it added, while stating that mental health is a key factor for overall well-being and prosperity.Explaining that there is a huge economic loss owing to mental health conditions of people, it said there is an urgent need to engage all stakeholders in educational institutions and the public to create awareness.The Department of Psychiatry had launched two unique programs: Primary Care Volunteer for Psychiatric Services and Psychological First Aid.Now, catering to popular demand, the Psychological First Aid course will be offered in Kannada. “This course is the first of its kind at a medical college hospital in India,” the statement noted.These programmes are open to anyone who holds a qualification of PUC and above, and they can belong to any age group. “Since it has a nominal fee and is taught online in a live mode, the certificate course is convenient for all who are interested,” the statement said.Dr. C.R. Chandrashekar, Padma Shri awardee and former professor of psychiatry, NIMHANS, Bengaluru, Dr. B.N. Gangadhar, Padma Shri awardee and former chairman of National Medical Commission, and Dr. Sunanda Kulkarni, senior professor of obstetrics and gynaecology, Chinmaya Mission Hospital, Bengaluru, will be present at the launch and interact with the public.The programme will be launched at Sri Rajendra Auditorium in JSS Hospital at 2.15 p.m. on January 6. For more information, contact Pradeep by dialling 9964223388 or emailing him at jssmcpsychiatry@jssuni.edu.in.Published - January 04, 2026 07:24 pm IST