Darasing Khurana, a global youth ambassador and philanthropist, emphasizes the need to go beyond awareness campaigns on World Mental Health Day and focus on everyday support systems that can profoundly impact lives. “Mental health has been widely discussed in recent years,” Khurana states, “but when it comes to helping someone in distress, we often feel uncertain about how to begin.” He asserts that initial support does not always necessitate professional intervention; rather, teachers, parents, and friends can play significant roles in maintaining mental health and identifying when someone is struggling. For children and young adults, schools represent a major portion of their lives, positioning teachers as the first line of awareness.
“Teachers are often the first to notice changes in a child’s behavior. They should be trained to recognize signs of mental distress and communicate these observations to parents for early intervention,” Khurana highlights. However, the onus does not solely rest on educators. Peers can also make a crucial impact. Khurana advocates for students to be encouraged to monitor their friends’ well-being. “If you observe a friend acting differently, withdrawing, or facing challenges, simply asking, ‘I am here, you can talk to me,’ can make a significant difference. Just listening can be transformative,” he remarks. The core of Khurana’s vision is a straightforward yet powerful principle: children must be heard, seen, and feel secure.
Fostering such an environment—at home, in schools, or among friends—can safeguard their mental health and prevent minor issues from escalating into severe distress. Through partnerships with UNICEF India and international discussions—including a recent meeting with Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong—Khurana advocates for systemic changes and cross-cultural solutions in mental health. Nonetheless, he asserts that change must also originate from grassroots efforts. “While professional help is vital, genuine change starts with our daily interactions—with attentive teachers, non-judgmental parents, and supportive friends; that is where true healing commences.” On this World Mental Health Day, Darasing Khurana conveys a clear message: Awareness is merely the initial step—what truly makes a difference is action, compassion, and active listening.
