IIT Guwahati has recently implemented a series of initiatives aimed at improving student mental health and addressing concerns following recent student deaths. The measures focus on easing the transition for new students, strengthening peer support networks, and ensuring access to mental health services. These efforts aim to create a healthier, more supportive academic environment for students. The decision to introduce these initiatives comes in response to student protests last semester following multiple student deaths. With mental health concerns on the rise across educational institutions in India, IIT Guwahati’s proactive steps reflect a growing need to prioritize student well-being.
 

New Acclimatisation Programme for New Students
To help incoming students adjust to campus life, IIT Guwahati has launched a week-long acclimatisation programme designed to ease their transition. This period will focus solely on building relationships and providing students with a comfortable environment before academic pressures begin. During the week, there will be no academic classes. Instead, students will participate in morning walks accompanied by faculty members. This initiative is intended to foster positive relationships between new students and faculty, encouraging open communication and trust. The goal is to provide new students with mentors they can turn to for guidance and support throughout their academic journey. The institute is also introducing a structured peer mentorship programme that pairs first-year students with senior peers. These senior students will provide insights into campus life, academic tips, and emotional support to help freshers adapt to their new environment. By connecting new students with experienced mentors, the programme aims to reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety.
 

Mandatory Counselling and Health Screenings
Recognizing the importance of mental well-being, IIT Guwahati has made counselling sessions compulsory for all students. This step is intended to remove the stigma often associated with seeking mental health support. Counselling sessions will be scheduled outside academic hours to ensure students can participate without academic disruptions. The sessions are designed to provide a safe space where students can discuss their concerns, build coping mechanisms, and address stressors before they escalate. To further promote mental wellness, IIT Guwahati will also conduct comprehensive medical check-ups that include mental health screenings. These check-ups will allow healthcare professionals to identify early signs of distress or psychological concerns, enabling timely intervention and support.
 

Hostel Support and Stress Management Strategies
In an effort to enhance student support in hostels, IIT Guwahati is considering hiring retired army personnel as hostel stewards. These individuals will interact with students, provide mentorship, and communicate student concerns directly to counsellors. The presence of experienced and approachable stewards aims to create a comfortable environment where students feel safe to discuss their problems. To promote social connections within hostels, IIT Guwahati will introduce ice-breaking sessions. These activities are designed to encourage interaction among students, fostering friendships and community support. Building strong social ties has been shown to significantly reduce feelings of loneliness and anxiety among students. The SAATHI Counselling Club has also introduced "Stress Escape Room" workshops, which focus on helping students manage academic stress through interactive activities. These workshops provide practical strategies for dealing with pressure, enhancing problem-solving skills, and encouraging teamwork.
 

Round-the-Clock Mental Health Support
To ensure students always have access to mental health resources, IIT Guwahati has partnered with the mental health platform YourDOST. This collaboration offers 24/7 mental health support, giving students direct access to trained professionals at any time. In addition to this, the institute now has four full-time counsellors dedicated to providing guidance and support to students. Recognizing the link between diet and mental well-being, IIT Guwahati is also hiring nutritionists to assist students in maintaining a healthy diet that can improve mood and reduce anxiety. Through this comprehensive set of initiatives, IIT Guwahati is striving to create a campus environment that promotes emotional well-being and resilience. By focusing on early intervention, strong mentorship networks, and accessible mental health resources, the institute aims to empower students to manage stress effectively and improve their overall quality of life. IIT Guwahati’s commitment to supporting student mental health reflects a growing awareness of the unique challenges students face in high-pressure academic environments. These initiatives demonstrate the institute’s dedication to fostering a positive and supportive campus community where students can thrive academically and emotionally.