Tag: Psychology Department

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Don Bosco College, Panjim Hosts ‘Psyrenity’ – A Celebration of Mental Health Awareness

Tanisha Cardozo

The B.A. Department of Psychology at Don Bosco College, Panjim, organized “Psyrenity – A Celebration of Mental Health Awareness” on October 13, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The festival served as a platform to promote positivity, self-expression, and emotional well-being through an engaging blend of creative stalls, games, and interactive experiences that encouraged reflection on mental health.

The event featured several unique and thought-provoking activities, including “Pop Your Insecurities,” where participants symbolically released their self-doubts; “Compliment Booth,” which spread smiles through kind words; “Knock Out the Negativity,” a fun stress-relief game; and “Express to Destress,” a space for artistic and emotional expression. One of the highlights of the day was the special fundraising canteen titled “Mood Foods,” themed around the link between food and emotions — blending nourishment with awareness.

The festival was organized under the guidance of Director Fr. Kinley D’Cruz, Principal Dr. Cedric Silveira, and Dr. Vijay Viegas, Head of the Department of Psychology, along with Ms. Grebian Alemao (College Counsellor), Ms. Nerissa Zuzarte (Faculty Coordinator), and Assistant Professors Ms. Andrea D’Souza and Ms. Tabitha Nunes. Students from all three years of the B.A. Psychology program worked with great enthusiasm to design and host the stalls, ensuring every visitor left inspired and smiling.

Psyrenity witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and faculty across various departments, creating a campus-wide spirit of positivity and unity. The event served as a gentle reminder that mental health matters — and that small acts of kindness, understanding, and self-care can have a powerful ripple effect.

With its creative and compassionate approach, Psyrenity reflected Don Bosco College’s ongoing commitment to promoting holistic well-being, empathy, and emotional growth within its academic community. The celebration concluded with laughter, reflection, and a renewed awareness that nurturing mental health is a joyful and collective responsibility.

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Don Bosco College, Panjim Holds Awareness Session on ‘Prevention of Suicide Among Teenagers’

Tanisha Cardozo

On October 6, 2025, the Department of Psychology and the Wellness Club of Don Bosco College, Panjim–Goa, organized an impactful awareness session on “Prevention of Suicide Among Teenagers.” The event formed part of the National Task Force Initiative and aimed to raise awareness, promote emotional well-being, and equip students with strategies to recognize and respond to signs of distress among peers.

The session was conducted by Ms. Aafreen Khan, College Counsellor at Dhempe College of Arts and Science, Miramar–Goa, who served as the Resource Person. In her engaging and empathetic address, Ms. Khan discussed the growing concern of teenage suicide, shedding light on the complex psychological, social, and emotional factors contributing to it. She emphasized the importance of fostering open communication, encouraging early intervention, and practicing empathy in supporting individuals facing emotional struggles.

Ms. Khan guided students on offering meaningful peer support, seeking professional help when necessary, and addressing the stigma that still surrounds mental health issues. Her interactive approach encouraged students to share their perspectives and engage in open dialogue, creating a safe and reflective space for learning and understanding.

Students from the First, Second, and Third Year B.A. programs, along with members of the Wellness Club, participated actively in the session. The event concluded with a message of hope and reassurance—that every life matters and that help is always available.

This initiative not only sensitized young minds to the realities of mental health challenges but also reinforced the importance of cultivating a campus culture centered on care, empathy, and mental well-being. Don Bosco College continues to uphold its commitment to holistic student development, ensuring that mental health awareness remains a vital part of its educational environment.

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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.