IIT Kanpur has always recognized the importance of supporting their student community and encouraged them to put their well-being first and prioritize their mental health and needs. With a culture that encourages personal growth and development, the institute goes beyond academics, supporting holistic development of their students.
The institute has significantly strengthened its approach to student mental health by expanding the Centre for Mental Health Wellbeing through the appointment of ten full time professional psychologists trained to manage serious and complex mental health concerns. In addition, a Clinical Head who is a psychiatrist has been appointed to lead all clinical activities at the Centre, supported by three empanelled psychiatrists to ensure continuity of care and specialised intervention when required.
As a preventive measure, all new undergraduate and postgraduate students undergo a mental health screening during their first week on campus. Students identified as being at moderate or severe risk are proactively contacted by trained counsellors for detailed assessment, early intervention and referral to psychiatrists when necessary, ensuring timely and structured care from the outset.
To build a more informed and responsive campus ecosystem, regular sensitisation workshops are being conducted for faculty, students and staff across the institute. These sessions also include security personnel, SIS guards, doctors, paramedics, library staff, hall managers, mess teams and cleaning staff, ensuring that everyone who interacts with students is equipped to recognise distress and respond appropriately.
The institute has also put in place a 24/7 emergency mental health support system through close coordination between the Centre for Mental Health Wellbeing and the Health Centre. This allows for immediate response in crisis situations and ensures that students receive timely medical and psychological support at any hour.
Alongside clinical support, sustained efforts are being made to normalise conversations around mental health. Regular awareness programmes and workshops are organised across the academic year, complemented by student engagement activities such as World Mental Health Day observances, festival celebrations and events like run fests that encourage connection, participation and a sense of community.
Peer mentoring has been formalised for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, where senior students actively support new entrants as they transition into campus life. This structure helps reduce feelings of isolation and provides an accessible first layer of support within the student community.
