Nagpur, India- "A silent pandemic in mental health is brewing," says Dr Rita Aggarwal, a well-known psychologist who recently received the 'Rotary People of Action: Champions of Impact' Award at the Rotary International Convention in Singapore. She also received the 'Self Above Service' Award for her volunteer work.

Dr. Aggarwal, a member of the Rotary Club of Nagpur District 3030, was honoured for her 'Wellness in a Box' project, which provides counselling to students with anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues. The project aims to change attitudes by raising awareness and creating training programs for students, parents, and teachers. So far, over 2,200 students and 2,000 parents have benefited from it.

She is one of six Rotarians worldwide to receive this award. "I feel honoured to receive this prestigious award. I'm glad the project was recognized. My team hopes people will continue to support and expand it," Dr. Aggarwal said.

Dr. Aggarwal started the Rotary Action Group on mental health initiatives in 2016. She noted that these initiatives gained significant support in 2023-2024 under the leadership of Rotary International President Gordon McInally, who prioritized mental health. "When the President focuses on a subject, Rotary clubs around the world take notice and act," she said.

Speaking about 'Wellness in a Box,' she described it as "well-structured, evidence-based, measurable, scalable, and sustainable with a significant impact." The project has been implemented in five schools in Nagpur and aims to encourage people to seek help by raising awareness.

Dr Aggarwal emphasized focusing on Class VIII students due to high suicide rates among the 15-29 age group in India. "We decided to start with 13-year-old students to prevent issues before they escalate," she explained.

She strongly advocates for making 'Wellness in a Box' part of the school curriculum, ensuring every child benefits, and seeking government recognition. "I am available to help and advise," she offered.

Reflecting on her experience at the Rotary International Convention in Singapore, Dr Aggarwal said, "It was a wonderful experience. I was impressed by the quality of the work and the commitment to transforming society. The other award recipients had incredible projects, and I made lifelong connections."

Dr Aggarwal shared plans to expand the 'Wellness in a Box' project to more schools in Nagpur and other cities. She also called on philanthropists in India to support mental health initiatives. "There is no shortage of philanthropy in India, with many donors and CSR funds available. My message to philanthropists is to focus on mental health and contribute," she urged.