Deepika Padukone Takes the Lead as First Mental Health Ambassador, Aiming for Stronger Support Systems
In a groundbreaking initiative to enhance mental health awareness in India, the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has appointed renowned actor and philanthropist Deepika Padukone as the nation’s first-ever ‘Mental Health Ambassador.’ This significant announcement was made in New Delhi on October 10, 2025, coinciding with World Mental Health Day. Padukone, who founded The Live Love Laugh Foundation, will collaborate with the Ministry to promote mental health advocacy and awareness across the country, marking a pivotal moment in the integration of mental well-being into public health.
Deepika Padukone’s Role and Responsibilities
As the newly appointed Mental Health Ambassador, Deepika Padukone will play a crucial role in promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma associated with mental health issues in India. Her collaboration with the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare aims to encourage open discussions about mental well-being and to highlight its importance as a fundamental aspect of public health. Union Minister J.P. Nadda expressed optimism about this partnership, stating that Padukone’s involvement will significantly contribute to disseminating information about mental health issues throughout the nation.
In her new capacity, Padukone will focus on encouraging individuals to seek timely help and supporting preventive care initiatives. She will also promote access to mental health resources, including Tele MANAS, a tele-mental health assistance program designed to provide support across states. Furthermore, she will be involved in designing and implementing strategic interventions to ensure equitable access to mental health care services for all citizens.
The Live Love Laugh Foundation’s Impact
The announcement of Padukone’s appointment coincides with a significant milestone for The Live Love Laugh Foundation, which celebrates ten years of impactful work in the mental health sector. Over the past decade, the foundation has developed various pathways for mental health care, including its flagship Rural Community Mental Health Program, which has supported over 21,931 individuals with mental illness and their caregivers across 15 districts in eight states.
The foundation has also led several nationwide awareness campaigns, such as “Dobara Poocho” and “#NotAshamed,” both aimed at normalizing conversations surrounding mental health. Additionally, its school-focused initiative, “You Are Not Alone,” provides mental health education and emotional support to adolescents, while the “Doctors Program” trains general practitioners to better address mental health concerns. Recently, the foundation expanded its efforts into the corporate sector with a comprehensive Corporate Mental Health and Well-Being Program.
Bridging Awareness and Action
Through her partnership with the Ministry, Deepika Padukone and The Live Love Laugh Foundation aim to bridge the gap between mental health awareness and actionable support. Their collective efforts will reinforce the message that mental health is as critical as physical health. By fostering a culture of openness and support, they hope to encourage individuals to prioritize their mental well-being and seek help when needed.
Padukone expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the first Mental Health Ambassador, stating her commitment to working closely with the Ministry to build on the progress made in mental health care under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. This collaboration is expected to create a more robust support system for mental health in India, ultimately benefiting countless individuals across the nation.
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