Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University (DPSRU) is deeply committed to the mental health and well-being of its students, faculty, and staff. This policy has been formulated in compliance with the University Grants Commission (UGC) Guidelines on Mental Health & Well-Being and the UGC Uniform Policy on Mental Health & Well-Being (2023). The University recognizes that mental health is integral to academic excellence, personal growth, and overall quality of life.

Vision: To create a mentally healthy, inclusive, and supportive university environment where every member can thrive. Mission: To promote mental health awareness, provide accessible counseling and support services, eliminate stigma, and foster holistic well-being among all members of the DPSRU community through an integrated approach combining healthcare, yoga, sports, and peer support.

This policy applies to all students (undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD scholars, and diploma students), regular faculty, and staff of DPSRU including those at DIPSAR, SPS, ASSRM, and all affiliated institutions. The policy ensures a compassionate, confidential, and non-discriminatory approach to mental health support for every member of the university community.

DPSRU shall establish and maintain a Mental Health & Well-Being Centre (MHWBC) integrated with the existing Community Health Facility. The MHWBC shall provide: individual and group counseling; psychological first aid; crisis intervention; referral services to specialized care; awareness and prevention programs; yoga, meditation, and mindfulness sessions through CMYS; and physiotherapy support for stress-related conditions.

The University shall maintain an on-campus helpline (011-29552039) accessible during working hours through the Medical Officer and trained counselors. Students may also be directed to national resources such as Telemanas (14416) and KIRAN (1800-599-0019). All counseling sessions are strictly confidential as per professional ethics and applicable law. A counselor-to-student ratio of at least 1:500 shall be maintained as per UGC norms.

DPSRU shall organize regular mental health awareness campaigns, workshops, and events including World Mental Health Day (October 10), Mental Health Awareness Week, and orientation programs for new students. Faculty and staff shall receive periodic training in mental health first aid and sensitivity. Student peer support programs and volunteer networks shall be established to reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking behavior.

In case of a mental health crisis or emergency: immediate contact shall be made with the Medical Officer (Dr. Priyanka Sonam) or on-call staff; the crisis response team shall be activated; emergency services shall be coordinated if required; family/guardians shall be informed as appropriate; and post-crisis follow-up and support shall be provided. All crises shall be handled with confidentiality, urgency, and compassion.

All mental health-related disclosures, counseling sessions, and records shall be maintained in strict confidentiality. Information shall only be shared with the explicit consent of the individual or in cases of imminent risk to life. Records shall be stored securely and accessible only to authorized personnel. No information shall be used in any academic or disciplinary proceedings without informed consent.

DPSRU promotes holistic well-being through integration of mental and physical health services. The Centre for Meditation and Yoga Sciences (CMYS) offers daily sessions, certificate courses, and the 'Dilli ki Yogshala' program. The Amity School of Sports & Recreation Management (ASSRM) coordinates sports activities for stress relief. The Physiotherapy OPD addresses stress-related musculoskeletal conditions and neurodevelopmental needs.

Students, faculty, or staff with concerns related to mental health services may submit grievances to the Associate Dean (Student Welfare) Dr. Sheetal Kalra or through the Student Grievance Cell (grievance@dpsru.edu.in). All grievances shall be addressed within 15 working days. DPSRU ensures zero tolerance for retaliation against individuals seeking mental health support or raising concerns.

The MHWBC shall maintain anonymized statistics on service utilization and submit annual reports to UGC through the MANAS-SETU portal. The Mental Health Policy shall be reviewed annually by the Panel Committee and updated to reflect current best practices and regulatory requirements. Reports shall also be presented to the Academic Council and Governing Body for oversight and improvement.