MAHE Bengaluru Walkathon Calls for Greater Mental Health Awareness and Open Conversations
Bengaluru, October 10: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bengaluru Campus, in association with Maarga Mind Care, organised a 5K walkathon to mark World Mental Health Day, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness, early identification of psychological concerns and timely access to professional support.
Held under the theme “Walk for Health: Steps Towards Better Mental Health,” the initiative brought together students, faculty members, staff, healthcare professionals, local representatives, volunteers and community members to promote a more open and supportive approach to mental well-being.
The walkathon forms part of MAHE Bengaluru’s ongoing efforts to strengthen mental health awareness across educational institutions and the wider community. It also emphasised the need to create an environment where people feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns and seeking help without fear of stigma or discrimination.
Mental health concerns among students and young people have drawn increasing attention in Bengaluru, with anxiety, family conflicts and academic pressure emerging as significant challenges. Findings from a 2026 study involving students across higher education institutions, along with counselling data, underline the importance of accessible support systems and early intervention.
S. R. Vishwanath, MLA representing Yelahanka constituency, flagged off the walkathon in the presence of Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu P., Additional Registrar, MAHE Bengaluru; Dr. Jothi Neeraja, Chairwoman of Maarga Mind Care; Mahadev, Executive Engineer, Lake Division, BNCC, Yelahanka; and Chandu C. N., President of the Yelahanka United Environmental Association.
Addressing the gathering, MLA S. R. Vishwanath said mental health deserved the same attention as physical health. He noted that initiatives such as the walkathon helped bring people together, encourage healthy habits and create awareness about mental well-being. He also stressed that open conversations and strong community support were essential to building a healthier society.
Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu P. said MAHE Bengaluru considered mental health and well-being integral to students’ overall campus experience. He added that the institution was committed to fostering understanding, empathy and access to support through continued engagement with students, healthcare partners and the wider community.
Dr. Jothi Neeraja, Founder, Chairwoman and Managing Director of Maarga Mind Care, said mental health needed to become an equally important part of Bengaluru’s progress in healthcare, education and innovation.
She emphasised the need to move beyond crisis-based intervention towards early identification of mental health concerns and easier access to appropriate care. She also highlighted the role of individuals, families, educational institutions and workplaces in recognising concerns early and supporting people through treatment and recovery.
The event also highlighted the link between regular physical activity and mental well-being, encouraging participants to incorporate exercise into their daily routines to manage stress and maintain overall health. Organisers reiterated that seeking professional help was a sign of strength and an important step towards recovery.
Participants began the programme with a warm-up session before completing the walk along the Allalasandra Lake loop.
The event was organised by MAHE Bengaluru in association with Maarga Mind Care, its mental health and well-being partner, with support from the Volunteer Services Organization, National Service Scheme, National Cadet Corps and Manipal Hospitals.
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