MHRD Manodarpan Portal Launch – Psychosocial Support to Students at manodarpan.education.gov.in

MHRD Manodarpan Portal Launch by Sh. Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, psychosocial support to Students at manodarpan.mhrd.gov.in for mental health and well being during COVID-19 outbreak & beyond, check tips for school students, teachers, parents as well as for university / college students, faculty & families, do's & don'ts to protect yourself from Coronavirus, FAQ's and complete details here
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Manodarpan Portal had been launched by Ministry of Education (earlier Ministry of Human Resource Development MHRD) of central government on 21 July 2020. The official website of MHRD Manodarpan initiative under Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan is manodarpan.education.gov.in. Through this channel, govt. will provide psycosocial support for mental health & well being of students during COVID-19 outbreak and beyond. In addition to this, govt. has also started a National Toll Free Helpline Number at 844 844 0632 to address students pyschosocial issues.

At the MHRD Manodarpan Portal, there are tips for school students, teachers and parents. Moreover, there are also tips for university or college students, faculty and families. This Manodarpan website contains 21st century skills (a handbook), motivational posters, CBSE podcasts and messages from famous personalities.

MHRD Manodarpan Portal Launch for Psychosocial Support to Students

MHRD felt the need to focus on continuing education on the academic front and the mental well-being of the students. So, Manodarpan initiative has been launched to cover wide range of activities to provide psychosocial support to school, college, university students for their mental health and well-being. It has been included in Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan as a part of strengthening human capital and increasing productivity and efficient reform and initiatives for the education sector. Here are the important features and highlights of this initiative.

Tips for School Students, Teachers & Parents

School Students
Quality Family timeSpend time by playing with family on board games, antakshari, other indoor games, music and crafts.
Learning can be funCreative thinking can go beyond the academic learning by participating in household chores, supporting younger siblings and parents.
Interactive Online classesSupport teachers in participating actively in online classes which will go a long way for enriching the utility and productivity of these times.
Empower Adolescent Peer SupportCome forth to be a peer educator/mentor by initiating and innovating online based peer support programs on life skills enrichments.
School Teachers
Learning with Life SkillsEncourage children to read and exchange things they have read or learnt beyond textbooks.
Engage in Playful ActivitiesDrawing/painting or story telling can help them express their feelings in a safe and supportive environment which can release emotions like fear or anxiety.
Provide Support and AttentionSeek guidance from the school principal/counsellor or special educators about a child with special needs and contact the local medical authority, if needed.
Promote ResilienceMotivate children to write about new skills and positive stories they have developed being at home and how they are spending their time with family.
Parents
Active ListeningActively listen to children’s difficulties, clarifying doubts, reassuring them, generating hope and providing emotional support in resolving issues.
Be a Role ModelChildren are very perceptive and closely observe your actions. Parents can support by managing their own stressors so that they can be role models.
Healthy LifestylesSet time for sleep, waking up, healthy balanced diet, learning and playtime as structured schedule to stay focused and motivated.
Provide Authentic InformationDiscuss facts about covid-19 and share facts which will help in reducing fear and distinguishing them from myths & rumours.

Tips for University / College Students, Faculty & Families

College or University Students
Prioritize self-careIn these times of uncertainty, focus on what you can control and take care of yourself to stay healthy.
Use Healthy CopingPlan for your next goal, learn new skills or connect with friends and family.
Acknowledge your feelingsIt is normal to feel anxious or worried. Recognize your feelings and express them with someone you trust to feel better.
Faculty / Teachers in Colleges, Universities
Support your studentsSend positive messages and connect with your students. Extend emotional support if needed.
Care and ShareCare for yourself and your family and reach out to friends, colleagues and your family to relieve any stress.
Identify professional supportFamiliarise yourself with available counseling services for students in campus, online or over phone.
Families
Validate their feelingsSupport your ward and empathise with their feelings.
Provide Active SupportInteract with your ward and reassure them that you are there for them.
Improvise daily scheduleEngage in pleasant indoor activities like games and music with all family members.

Do’s & Dont’s to Protect Yourself & Others from COVID-19

Here is what you should do and what you shouldn’t do to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. Follow these Do’s and Don’ts:-

  • Do’s
    • Practice frequent hand washing. Wash hands with soap and water or use alcohol based hand rub. Wash hands even if they are visibly clean.
    • Cover your nose and mouth with handkerchief/tissue while sneezing and coughing.
    • Throw used tissues into closed bins immediately after use.
    • See a doctor if you feel unwell (fever, difficult breathing and cough). While visiting doctor wear a mask/cloth to cover your mouth and nose.
    • If you have these signs/symptoms please call state helpline number or Ministry of Health & Family Welfare’s 24X7 helpline at 011-23978046
    • Avoid participating in large gatherings.
  • Don’ts
    • Have a close contact with anyone. If you’re experiencing cough and fever.
    • Touch your eyes, nose and mouth.
    • Spit in public.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

I am a student of class VII. Due to lockdown, we students are confined at home. My school has started online classes and I’m really enjoying this kind of learning as our teachers share a lot of documentaries, video clips and catchy slides which makes lessons very interesting. But still I miss my school, especially meeting my friends. How do I feel motivated amidst such situation

Good to know that you are enjoying this new way of learning. Online classes are indeed the best alternative medium of learning in the present situation. Your teachers are working very hard to make these classes very engaging and interesting. It’s true that you must be missing school, friends and teachers. Online classes are certainly not a substitute for real classroom teaching .But take this as an opportunity to spend time with your family. Pursue hobbies that you might have wanted to for long such as photography, reading, writing poems or a story, cooking, gardening, and learning public speaking .You can connect virtually with your cousins and friends through the means of social media. Let’s make maximum use of this time and learn new things that can help you in your future as well.

I am studying in class XI presently, my mom dad are in essential services and me being a single child. It’s difficult for me to stay alone all day at home. My parents come home in the evening.My friends have chosen a different stream than mine which keeps them busy. How do I remain positive in such situation, what all should I do to keep myself happy and busy

Firstly, we thank your parents and all others who are fighting like warriors to save humanity. Well, we do understand that it’s a tough situation for you, but be inspired from your parents and extend a support system to them. Involve yourself in small household chores. Extend your friend circle. You now have the opportunity to know your classmates better and make new friends.
Engage yourself creatively and fruitfully. Skill up yourself. You have enough time in your hands to paint, sketch, doodle, or cook. Try some new recipes and surprise your parents by cooking for them. You may arrange your dad’s cupboard or arrange his documents or files. You can also start a gratitude journal to help you focus on the positives in your life. It is simple and easy to do. Just find a spare notebook or paper and number them 1 to 3. Then write down 3 things you are grateful for today. Don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be ground-breaking. Try this every day, share your thoughts with your friends and family and to help spread the gratitude.

There are many students aspiring to go abroad for study. Will the corona virus situation restrict their plans

Several students who have plans to study abroad have delayed their plans due to lockdown restrictions imposed in various countries across the globe leading to suspension of classes and visa processes. The plan is only deferred but not cancelled. There is no region left out from the impact of corona virus, so there are no alternative destinations. You need to be patient and keep track online of various universities and the changing situations globally. But it is advised not to submit fees online if they are non-refundable.

I am 17 years old and have constrained domestic space. My day is spent in attending online classes from morning 9am till 2pm, followed by intermittent support to my parents in house hold chores. Evenings are generally spent in finishing assignments and research work.I’m a National Level sports person and I feel lazy and lethargic due to severe restriction in physical movement. Please suggest ways to keep myself fit and energetic in this limited space

It’s 2021, and you have an entire world of free online workouts, many of which require nothing more than a small amount of space. Technology is offering incredible fitness programmes for constrained spaces. Follow a routine. Get up early and invest that time in yoga. Use your staircase for cardio. Strength building exercise sessions helps. Running in place is an option for you. Sessions on crunches, squats, lunges, and pilates with wall support, planks are good result yielding exercise regime. Eat a balanced diet with lots of fresh greens. Choose a fruit or oil – free healthy option for snacking in between meals. Practice mindful eating. Keep you self-hydrated and most importantly stay positive and motivated.

I am a student of class VII. Due to lockdown I miss my school, especially meeting my friends. All days have become same and boring. How do I feel motivated amidst such situation

It’s true that you must be missing school, friends and teachers. Also, it was time for the new session to begin and we can all anticipate your excitement of going to a new class. Take this lockdown period as a blessing in disguise. Spend more time with your family. Pursue hobbies that you might have wanted for long such as photography, reading, write a story , cooking without fire- learn sandwich making , simple tossed salads, gardening, learning public speaking or create your own puzzle frames .Speak to your teachers about your interests. They can send you music, dance or art lessons through small video clippings .You are connected virtually with your cousins, friends and teachers through the means of social media. Let’s make maximum utilization of this time and learn new things, that can help you in your future as well.

The pandemic crisis seems to deepen with every passing day. With so much of uncertainty around how should students keep themselves motivated to continue with online classes and do the assignment and learning with same sincerity that they have always done

The darkest night gives way to a new dawn. Similarly, this grave hour of crisis shall lead to new beginnings. Looking at the positive side of the crisis it has brought forth new realizations. People across world have learnt values which were till now only written in textbooks. With so much of self -reflection happening people have realized that health workers are true heroes and not the social media celebrities. Children have learnt dignity of labour and value of resources. The list of positive is endless. So, however grave the situation seems to be at present, we all shall emerge stronger and better human beings. Lockdown and its related challenges is not in your hands but your academics is . So, let your worries rest and begin your day with a small prayer .Engage your mind in creative pursuits – read a book ; paint ; draw All shall be fine. Meanwhile, use technology in the best possible way to contribute to a brighter tomorrow.

I’m 17-year-old. I spend so much time texting my friends that it has started interfering with my study life, and all the other interpersonal relation. Do I really need to attend a tele-counseling session

During times of COVID-19, it is natural that inclination towards internet will increase because everyone these days is interacting and working through technology. It is to be believed that several lives may be changed for positive with the help of tele-counseling sessions if needed by the people with mental health concerns. If, though, you find that you need more intensive help of credentialed professionals or your doctor has recommended professional treatment or you want to try something else — there are lots of options to suit your needs and situation. Finally, and most importantly, give yourself some time alone, do time management, invest your time in home-chores activities as well. Reduce screen time and increase interpersonal time. This multifaceted approach helps address every aspect of your behaviour, giving you the best shot at living a healthy, happy life in recovery.

I’m 13-year-old. During times of Lockdown, I have been attending online classes from home for past 2 months. Most of my time is spend with internet for online classes. I feel I have started having somatic complaints of eyes pain, and back ache due to constant screen time and stress

You are going through the “wear and tear” experience. As a positive influence, stress can help compel us to action; it can result in a new awareness and an exciting new perspective. As a negative influence, it can result in feelings which in turn can lead to health problems such as lack of sleep, mood swings, indigestion, abdominal cramps, neck ache, and backache including the feeling of helplessness. While moving ahead at your debut job, it is important to take care of a healthy balanced diet, good sleep, moderate exercise and regular communication with loved ones. The golden rule is to enhance intake of greens, fruits salads and pulses, keep a check on the oils, spices and salts. Adequate sleep is must for rejuvenation of the mind. Plan at least 6 – 7 hours of restful sleep to enhance concentration. Minimum structured physical activity i.e. 15-20 minutes of jumping, skipping, yoga and meditation is not only refreshing but also mood elevating. Keep your pro-social behaviours alive and flying along with the demanding job. Remember family and friends are always a leap to your confidence.

I am a 15-year-old boy in Delhi, current lockdown has unexpectedly affected my sleep cycle. It has become a routine for me to go to bed late at night causing laziness and restlessness. How do I fix my sleep schedule amidst lockdown

Fix a sleep schedule and regulate your biological clock and your sleep patterns will be automatically fixed. Reduce activities that cause stress or excitement before going to sleep like sitting in bright light (computer / phone), listening to loud music or news related to pandemic Covid-19 etc. Avoid afternoon naps, eat light dinner, avoid electronics before going to bed. Make a routine to get up early in morning and spend some time for exercise, yoga or meditation. This will help to reduce your stress and anxiety, and keep you active throughout the day.

I’m a student of class XI from a reputed school of Gurugram. Off and on I hear my parents worried about losing their jobs or wondering how they will pay their subsequent EMI’s? I am now becoming concerned about my own mental, behavioral, or emotional wellbeing? Kindly guide

True, this is actually testing time for all of us, however, remember we have to fight out these moments of crisis. Firstly, sit with your parents and discuss your feelings. Get clarity on these issues. They might assure you that they have savings. All parents plan for future still see if you can avoid any major and unnecessary expenses and be a support to them. Try to help out your parents with simple household chores. That will give them a feeling that you are responsible and understand them. Stay positive and hopeful, this is temporary. Keep in mind that every individual is different. If you are concerned about changes in your behaviour, talk to your doctor or health care provider. Share this with your parents as well. Be prepared to seek further evaluation by a specialist with experience in child mental health issues.

I am a 18 years old and preparing for my 12th boards. For last few weeks I am feeling insecure and having bouts of depression. Mondays seem the worst. Don’t feel like waking up and going to school. My parents don’t seem to understand. Please help

At this age, Adolescents do get distracted due to various reasons. First move should be to preserve your overall health in the face of board exams. Be an active participant in all the activities happening in your school. Do not just keep to yourself. Being pro social with diverse interests can go a long way in keeping harmony within you. Secondly, one can appreciate certain facts about stress. As a positive influence, stress can enhance our action, it can mobilize newer awareness and an exciting new perspective. As a negative impact, such feelings can lead to health concerns such as lack of sleep, mood swings, indigestion, abdominal cramps, and head ache including the feeling of helplessness. Lastly, involve yourself in studies, in more challenging and more rewarding way. This will help you remain busy and keep your mind focused on the task at hand. Try to be innovative, avoid remaining grumpy and be more approachable. This is just a phase; one need not be petrified. Soon you will discover your interest and will certainly blossom.

My friend is 17 years old and having severe adjustment problems at home. I have seen a change in his behaviour over the last 3 – 4 weeks. He keeps saying that he is sad and miserable. I also find him difficult and irritable at times. Please suggest how can I solve his problems and help him overcome his depression

Many a times this clearly describes the low mood that goes deeper than usual or feels as if it has got helplessly prolonged. Nevertheless, if you can recognize these moods before they turn severe, then you can help your friend to deal with them effectively. As this close friend of yours is going through depression, your support in the right way can be particularly helpful. Keep in mind, while you feel empathy and a desire to help, a part of you is likely to feel frustrated and irritated. Depressed friends and relatives may be quite difficult and therefore, it is vital to understand the effects of that state of mind on his daily life and your patience too. Though your keenness & responsibility is appreciated, you are not there to solve his problems. Primarily, your role is to listen and to reflect honestly on the reasons why your friend is feeling sad and low. Your role can further be enhanced as a facilitator, supporter and a sounding board. Yes, you need to be patient while caring. This much initiative will be extremely useful to make him feel cared and seek further assistance.

I am 22 years old, BA (pass) student. These days in Lockdown, restricted movement and online classes has made me feel sad and anxious. How can I keep myself constantly motivated as I tend to lose my self-motivation which further prevents me from working hard? Lockdown has caused a restriction on me. Please help

Motivation is not sought; it is inside us. Our own will to excel and deliver good performance is sign of high motivation. You can schedule yourself, keep small targets, reduce the T.V. time and indulge for short duration indoor exercises. Inculcate a balanced diet along with extra water intake, it will provide adequate oxygen to brain. Other tips to self-motivate are: Be positive & hopeful. Think empowering, expansive thoughts.; Choose to be happy. Happy people are easily motivated. Happiness is your birth right so don’t settle for anything else, however, it is your choice too; Spend at least one hour a day in self-development. Read good books or listen to inspiring music.; Train yourself to finish what you start. So many of us become scattered as we try to accomplish a task. Finish one task before you begin another.; Live fully in the present moment. When you live in the past or the future you aren’t able to make things happen in the present.
Remember! the power to succeed or fail will always be yours alone. You alone have the responsibility to shape your life.

I am 19yr old student of B.COM first year. As I am dyslexic, I don’t like writing at all. I feel lazy, stressed out through the day. No matter how hard I try not to waste time, I end up watching television most of the time. Please suggest how I manage my time so that I can improve my performance before college reopens and do not feel so guilty

Time management in modern day living is also the hallmark of life management skills. Firstly, make a schedule that is possible. When you find yourself sitting and watching TV for hours or just doing nothing and getting bored, use your work list to change your free time into a productive time. Put things that are most important at the top and do them first. If it is easier, use a planner to track all of your tasks and do not forget to reward yourself for your accomplishment. Keep a note in diary or put a reminder buzzer to help you keep a track of your responsibilities and tasks. This will give you plenty of time to do what you want to do.
With the help of your family and videos online, seek to learn relaxation techniques that will eliminate stress and anxiety in minutes. Do not compromise on sleep because it reduces study efficiency along with recalling power during exam times. When things around us are not under our control and when we must do a dozen things within a limited period of time, our mind has to focus on real priorities. However, with the right planning we can bring order and discipline into our lives. It’s about nurturing attitudes.

These days, everyone is talking about exploring online courses to utilize the time judiciously. How are online degrees perceived in the workplace? I am confused. Please help

It hasn’t been too long ago that online degrees were not taken seriously by employers, treating the credentials as certificate programs. However, attitudes have changed as new technologies boosted the popularity of virtual learning, encouraging the participation of traditional schools in this new format.
It is Global Pandemic and today all the education is happening online which is a real-time interaction through live lessons in virtual classrooms, so Relax and Keep Learning!

I am a student of final year. I have started to feel disconnected and isolated. I compartmentalize negative feelings and mere discussion brings too much of worry

Firstly, try to understand whether these feelings have just started to arise or they were there even before this pandemic situation. If they were present even before this time, you may contact a Professional and work upon what is suggested. If you have started feeling this way recently, it is natural and temporary, however, you should take help from the university counseling services or helpline. Quick simple suggestions would be to talk to your friend or you can move on to something lighter when you begin to feel overwhelmed.

For more details, visit the official website at manodarpan.mhrd.gov.in

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