Odisha government has taken a major step in view of increasing mental stress, depression and suicidal tendency among children and youth. A new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been issued to protect the mental health of students from Anganwadi centers to schools, colleges and universities. The teachers and employees of these institutions have been instructed to treat the children with respect and refrain from profanity. Also, emphasis is laid on recognizing the early symptoms of mental problems and providing timely counseling and necessary help.

According to the new guidelines, teachers and staff should not address children with ‘lazy’, ‘stubborn’ or other derogatory terms. A student should refrain from scolding, insulting or uttering such words in front of everyone, which creates an inferiority complex in his mind. The government believes that changes in children’s behavior can occur due to psychological pressure and stress. Therefore, it is important to treat them positively and cooperatively.

Identification will be done after two weeks of symptoms

In the SOP, it is instructed to pay attention to symptoms related to mental health of children. If a student exhibits persistent sadness, fear, irritability, violent behavior or other unusual changes for more than two weeks, he/she will be taken seriously. They will also be referred to mental health specialists if needed.

Students will be in Green, Yellow and Red category

An arrangement has been made to divide children into green, yellow and red categories based on the assessment of their mental state. Accordingly, care and support will be provided after understanding their needs. To reduce exam stress, it is also advised to rest for five minutes after studying for 25 minutes, take deep breaths and get enough sleep.

Mental health centers will be created in universities

Guidelines have also been issued for higher educational institutions. It has been recommended to set up mental health and wellness centers in universities and colleges to tackle challenges like ragging, discrimination, drug addiction, homelessness and relationship failure. This SOP is prepared based on the report ‘Operational Guidelines on Mental Health and Wellbeing of Children, Adolescents and Adults’. The government hopes that this will lead to early identification of mental health problems and children and young people can get the right help.