Tag: mental health

rip

Baek Se-hee, Author of I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki, Dies at 35

Tanisha Cardozo

Baek Se-hee, the South Korean author of the internationally acclaimed memoir I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki, has died at the age of 35. Known for her candid exploration of mental health and her ability to articulate the quiet inner conflicts that many face, Baek leaves behind a legacy of honesty, empathy, and cultural impact.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DP8SkZ6AeTw/

Her 2018 book, which was originally published in Korean, quickly became a cultural touchstone. Composed of a series of real conversations with her psychiatrist, the book offered readers a rare and unfiltered look into the daily struggles of living with persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia). In doing so, Baek challenged social stigmas and gave language to thoughts and feelings that often remain unspoken.

The memoir struck a powerful chord with readers not just in South Korea, but globally. Following its English translation in 2022, I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki became a bestseller in over 25 countries, selling more than a million copies worldwide. Its title—juxtaposing despair with a craving for a beloved Korean street food—embodied the paradoxes of life with mental illness: the desire to give up, yet also the impulse to hold on for the small joys.

The circumstances surrounding Baek’s death remain unclear. However, in a statement released by the Korean Organ Donation Agency, it was revealed that Baek had donated her heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys—saving five lives in the process. Her final act reflects the deep compassion that marked both her life and work. A message from her sister included in the statement said Baek “wanted to share her heart with others through her work, and to inspire hope.”

In a world where silence around mental health is often the norm, Baek Se-hee wrote with courage and clarity. Her words made readers feel less alone. Her story became a mirror for many, especially young people navigating similar emotional terrains. Her book was not only a success in sales, but a rare example of how literature can serve as both a confessional and a collective healing space.

As tributes pour in from readers, authors, and mental health advocates, Baek’s work continues to resonate. Her passing is a significant loss to global literature and the mental health community, but her impact will live on in the hearts of readers she moved and lives she saved.

Human Interest

Deepika Padukone Becomes the Voice of Meta AI and India’s First Mental Health Ambassador

Tanisha Cardozo

Bollywood superstar and mental health advocate Deepika Padukone has taken on two impactful roles, further expanding her influence across technology and public health. She has officially become the voice of Meta AI—marking a first for an Indian celebrity to be integrated into AI platforms across multiple countries including India, the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.

In a video shared on Instagram, Deepika is seen in a recording studio, lending her voice to Meta’s AI assistant. “Hi, I am Deepika Padukone. I am the new voice of Meta AI. So tap the ring and my voice will run out,” she says, announcing the launch of her collaboration with the tech giant.

In the same week, on the occasion of World Mental Health Day, Deepika was appointed by the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare as the first-ever Mental Health Ambassador of India. The appointment recognizes her longstanding commitment to mental wellness through her NGO, The Live Love Laugh Foundation (LLL), which she founded after personally battling depression. The ministry’s recognition is a major milestone in India’s efforts to prioritize mental health within the public health ecosystem.

Sharing her gratitude, Deepika posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, thanking the government and the Ministry. She also acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in bringing mental health to the forefront of national dialogue. “Through my own journey and the work we’ve done at @tlllfoundation over the past decade, I’ve seen how much is possible when we come together to build a mentally healthy India,” she wrote. She also shared a photo from her meeting with Union Health Minister JP Nadda and Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava.

Deepika’s dual announcements reflect her growing influence beyond cinema—where her voice is not only powering conversations with AI users but also helping reshape India’s mental health narrative. Whether it’s tech innovation or national advocacy, she is using her platform to create impact in areas that matter.

On the work front, she has also begun shooting for ‘King,’ her sixth collaboration with Shah Rukh Khan, following the massive success of ‘Jawan’ directed by Atlee. With each project, Deepika continues to build a legacy that blends entertainment, empathy, and empowerment.

EduConnect

St. Xavier’s College, Department of Psychology Celebrates Mental Health Day 2025: ‘Pathway to Support’

Tanisha Cardozo

On October 9, 2025, the Department of Psychology at St. Xavier’s College came together to host an engaging and impactful Mental Health Day celebration under the thoughtful theme “Pathway to Support: Because Every Mind Matters.” This annual initiative aimed to create awareness, spark meaningful dialogue, and promote emotional well-being among students, aligning with the global Sustainable Development Goal 3 – which advocates for good health and well-being for all, with an emphasis on mental health.

The day began with a warm and encouraging welcome by Dr. Eulalia Fernandes, the event coordinator, who was ably supported by student leaders Bethany Fernandes and Destiny D’Souza. Their meticulous planning and hands-on involvement helped shape the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere of the event. The presence of college dignitaries – Principal Ms. Ursula Barreto, Administrator Fr. Tony Salema, and Vice Principal Prof. Felipe Rodrigues e Melo – highlighted the institution’s strong commitment to fostering a mentally healthy campus.

The event featured a powerful mime performance that visually captured the struggles and hopes associated with mental health. This was followed by an engaging Open Mic session, offering students a platform to share stories, poems, and reflections in a safe and welcoming space. Certificates were also distributed to participants of a previously held poster-making competition, celebrating student creativity and awareness efforts. A keynote address by Fr. Tony Salema added depth to the occasion, as he shared insights on building a supportive and understanding environment for all.

As the day unfolded, interactive and reflective activities lined the college lobby, transforming it into a space of learning, sharing, and joy. The “Ping Pong Trivia” added a fun twist to mental health facts, while “Pop Your Insecurities” invited students to symbolically let go of their worries. The Art Table provided a space for creative self-expression, and the “Take What You Need” corner offered affirmation cards promoting hope, strength, and kindness. Activities like “Inside Out: Sorting Emotions,” the Affirmation Mirror, Mehendi Table, and Sticker Counter further enhanced self-awareness, relaxation, and peer connection.

The celebration concluded on a vibrant note with a high-energy flash mob that brought smiles and unity to the crowd, leaving behind a lasting reminder that mental health is not just personal, but communal.

Mental Health Day 2025 at St. Xavier’s College was not only a celebration, but a call to action — encouraging everyone to care for themselves and each other. The event successfully blended education, empathy, and entertainment, proving that even small moments of connection, creativity, and conversation can pave the way to a stronger, healthier community.

Social

Goa Walkathon Inspires Wellness and Empowerment Among Rural Women

allycaralgoa

Panjim, October 2025: In a vibrant display of community spirit and wellness, the Walkathon for Rural Women was flagged off from Kala Academy, Panjim to Betim Jetty. The event featured 1 km and 2 km routes, designed to engage women from rural areas in a collective journey toward physical and mental wellbeing.

The walkathon was inaugurated by CCP Mayor Shri Rohit Monserrate, accompanied by Smt. Sulakshana Sawant, Educationist, alongside other dignitaries. The event was organized by the Goa State Rural Livelihoods Mission (GSRLM) in partnership with Padmini Foundation and Say Foundation, two NGOs dedicated to fostering community development and women empowerment.

Speaking at the event, Mayor Shri Monserrate highlighted the importance of active lifestyles for rural women, noting that such initiatives not only improve health and wellness but also strengthen community bonds and confidence.

Participants from various villages enthusiastically walked the routes, enjoying a mix of exercise, camaraderie, and festive spirit. The initiative aimed to raise awareness about the significance of mental health, encourage regular physical activity, and reinforce the importance of women supporting women.

The walkathon also included short awareness sessions and engagement activities along the route, promoting healthy habits, nutrition, and social cohesion. Organizers emphasized that events like these play a crucial role in building resilient rural communities where women feel empowered to take charge of their health, well-being, and future.

The event concluded with participants sharing their experiences, taking a collective pledge to continue pursuing wellness and supporting fellow women in their communities. Initiatives like this reflect Goa’s commitment to holistic development, ensuring that rural women have the platform, motivation, and resources to thrive.

Films

Rab Di Awaaz Screening Inspires Inclusion at Chubby Cheeks Spring Valley High

Tanisha Cardozo

As part of the pre-events for the highly anticipated International Purple Fest, Goa 2025, Chubby Cheeks Spring Valley High School, Porvorim, had the honour of hosting the screening of Rab Di Awaaz, a powerful and emotive film series that beautifully captures the lives and challenges of persons with disabilities.

Organized by the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Goa, and the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, the event was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, the United Nations, and the Rotary Club of Bardez Coastal. This inspiring initiative aimed to foster awareness, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the need for inclusion and equal opportunities in all spheres of life.

The program featured esteemed guests including Mr. Ojaswwee Sharma, National Award–Winning Film Director; Mr. Bhasker Pandey, Film Editor; Mr. Shridhar Gupta, Editor; and Dr. Rimpi Arora, Advisor on Policy and Inclusion. Mr. Sharma addressed the students and faculty, offering a compelling talk on the creative process behind Rab Di Awaaz and the importance of inclusive storytelling in reshaping societal perspectives.

What made the screening unique was its delivery format—telecasted in every classroom using Smart TV panels, a pioneering step that sets Chubby Cheeks Spring Valley High apart as the first school in Goa to integrate Smart Class facilities in all classrooms. This technology-enabled approach ensured that every student, from primary to high school, could engage with the film in an immersive and accessible manner.

The event left a lasting impression on students, instilling a sense of empathy and awareness about the challenges and strengths of persons with disabilities. It was not just a film screening, but a step toward building a more inclusive, informed, and compassionate generation.

Through initiatives like these, Chubby Cheeks Spring Valley High School continues to be a beacon of progressive, values-driven education that goes beyond academics to shape socially responsible individuals.