In a world where stress and loneliness are increasingly affecting young minds, a wellness initiative is offering a much-needed solution. Prof. Nand Kumar, a senior psychiatrist from the Department of Psychiatry, Delhi-AIIMS, has introduced an innovative school-based program called MATE—Mind Activation Through Education, which aims to build emotional resilience and positive mental health in children. 

Launched in 2020, MATE was developed with a specially designed module focusing not on illness, but on wellness and prevention. “We don’t talk about diseases in this program,” Prof. Kumar said. “Instead, we teach students how to recognize and build wellness, resolve conflicts, cope with stress, and develop healthy habits. It’s a preventive approach to mental health.”  Targeting students in grades sixth to eighth, the program focuses on essential life skills such as resilience, problem-solving, emotional well-being, and the importance of maintaining good health—both mental and physical. 

Prof. Kumar highlighted that the MATE program has led to notable positive outcomes.

“We’ve seen improvements in children’s academic performance, better relationships with their parents, and a rise in social connectivity,” he explained. “Students also report lower levels of stress after participating in the program.”  One of the most impactful components of MATE is what Prof. Kumar calls ‘MATE 5’—a concept that encourages each child to have five close friends who provide support, share honest feedback, and help build strong, trustworthy relationships.  “In today’s world, loneliness is growing,” Prof. Kumar noted.

“Many children are part of small families, often with just one or two siblings. Social bonds are weakening. But humans are not meant to live in isolation. We need friendships and support systems to thrive emotionally.”

 The MATE project is a reminder that mental health education doesn’t have to begin with illness—it can start with connection, understanding, and care. As more schools and policymakers consider integrating mental wellness into education, MATE offers a tested model for nurturing healthier, happier students from an early age.