Neerja Birla’s Mpower, Amitabh Bachchan Collaborate Mental Health Campaign #SunoDekhoKaho to Sensitize Citizens

Taking cognizance of the rising issues surrounding mental wellness in the country, Mpower Founder and Chairperson Mrs Neerja Birla and Bollywood Icon Shri Amitabh Bachchan have come together to address these concerns. In a freewheeling conversation, which was released today as a video on Mpower’s YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram pages, the two leaders touched upon the harsh realities of mental health, the challenges people face because of it, and steps society can take to handle the situation with compassion. In order to give viewers valid responses, the conversation elucidated the differences between irrational fears and anxiety, and how one should handle the former, before it prevents them from carrying out routine tasks.

The thought #SunoDekhoKaho itself is so beautifully explained; ‘Suno’- someone who can lend an ear to someone who needs it, ‘Dekho’ – lookout for symptoms of illness and suffering individuals and ‘Kaho’ – help somebody, and spread the word and build awareness about mental health. In line with the theme #SunoDekhoKaho, Mrs. Birla and Mr. Bachchan spoke about the importance of education, in helping identify, and understand the symptoms of mental illness. From school children to corporate professionals, from artists to politicians, it is never easy to understand what one might be going through, beneath the surface. The conversation approached the topic by talking about the stigma associated with ‘opening up’, and stressed upon the heightened need for awareness, especially among those who are prone to physical and substance abuse, leading to deteriorating mental health.

As the conversation progressed, they also sought to dispel common myths around mental health, the most pertinent being that it is unaffordable, which prevents people from seeking the help that they need. Mrs. Birla spoke about how, over the course of Mpower’s journey, they have counselled a wide cross section of society, so as to not deny anyone the chance to live with respect and dignity.

Speaking about the association with Mr. Bachchan, Mrs. Neerja Birla, Founder & Chairperson, Mpower, said, “Mr. Bachchan has been long associated with creating awareness on a variety of health issues that we Indians need to combat in our lives. Hence, we approached him if he could lend his support to amplify the conversations on a taboo topic like mental health. He graciously agreed to the cause. We are happy to collaborate with Mr. Bachchan for this campaign, which decodes the importance of mental well-being. It’s an honour to have a legend like him to discuss a topic which is sensitive and deep-rooted concern in our society. A powerful voice like his will help us highlight the issue of mental health, which is the need of the hour. Amidst the challenging and competitive era that we are living in, it is extremely important to discuss mental health and bring it to the spotlight. With #SunoDekhoKaho, we aim to educate the citizens and make them aware of accessibility of mental health services in India. We truly hope with Mr. Bachchan addressing a wider audience through this communication, we will gradually be able to eliminate the stigma associated with mental health.”

The month long #SunoDekhoKaho campaign aims at encouraging people to listen, be watchful, speak up to seek help. Mpower will provide support for all those in need and help them tackle mental health concerns.

About Mpower:

Backed by Aditya Birla Education Trust, Mpower is a holistic mental health care initiative, which has become the pioneer of mental health awareness in the country. Since its inception, Mpower aims to create an ecosystem where people with mental health concerns and their caregivers receive professional support, care and acceptance to facilitate their recovery, without facing discrimination or shame. With the help of holistic care, interventions and treatments that are world-class and multi-disciplinary, Mpower is dedicated to ending the stigma associated with mental health. Mpower hopes to help in bringing about change in the public perception of coping with mental health concerns. Currently, Mpower's clinical footprint is in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Goa and Pilani.

About Aditya Birla Education Trust:

Aditya Birla Education Trust (ABET) is an organisation committed to the cause of education and mental health, with an objective to nurture young minds. Right from establishing the Aditya Birla World Academy, an International School with an Indian soul, to The Aditya Birla Integrated School, which acknowledges the need to cater to children with different learning needs, ABET has always prioritised the importance of a child’s overall development. Further under the aegis of ABET, the Aditya Birla Education Academy provides professional development opportunities for educators, and engages, empowers and equips them to contribute towards shaping the future of young minds. In an endeavour to stamp out stigma surrounding mental health concerns, ABET has established Mpower, a holistic mental health care initiative, which has become the pioneer of mental health awareness in the country. Aditya Birla Education Trust runs under the zealous leadership of its passionate and committed Founder & Chairperson, Mrs. Neerja Birla.