### Deepika Padukone Appointed as India's First Mental Health Ambassador: A Landmark Initiative Deepika Padukone, a prominent Bollywood actress, has been appointed as India's first Mental Health Ambassador by the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. This significant announcement coincided with World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2025, and aims to combat the stigma surrounding mental health issues in India. Padukone, who has openly shared her struggles with depression and anxiety, will leverage her platform and her foundation, The Live Love Laugh Foundation, to promote mental health awareness and support initiatives for better mental health care across the nation [https://www.timesnownews.com/health/mental-health-should-be-embraced-not-shamed-deepika-padukone-on-becoming-government-of-indias-first-mental-health-ambassador-article-152988528][https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/deepika-padukone-appointed-as-indias-first-mental-health-ambassador-meaningful-steps-to/4006182]. ### Structure of the Initiative and Its Goals 1. **Role of the Mental Health Ambassador**: - Deepika Padukone will work closely with the government to raise awareness about mental health issues and promote access to mental health services [https://www.india.com/entertainment/deepika-padukone-becomes-the-first-mental-health-ambassador-for-the-government-of-india-8125646]. 2. **Focus on Stigma Reduction**: - The initiative aims to destigmatize mental health conditions, encouraging open discussions and acceptance [https://www.easterneye.biz/deepika-padukone-first-mental-health-ambassador]. 3. **Support for Early Intervention**: - Experts emphasize the importance of early intervention and resilience practices to differentiate between normal sadness and clinical depression [https://www.timesnownews.com/health/mental-health-should-be-embraced-not-shamed-deepika-padukone-on-becoming-government-of-indias-first-mental-health-ambassador-article-152988528]. 4. **Collaboration with Existing Programs**: - Padukone's efforts will align with existing mental health initiatives, such as the Tele MANAS program, which provides mental health support through telecommunication [https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/india/deepika-padukone-named-indias-mental-health-ambassador-new-tele-manas-features-launched-iql3nafh]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Public Response**: The announcement has garnered significant public attention, with many expressing support for Padukone's appointment, including her husband, Ranveer Singh, who expressed pride in her new role [https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/bollywood/ranveer-singh-is-incredibly-proud-of-wife-deepika-padukone-as-she-becomes-indias-first-mental-health-ambassador-article-152979348]. - **Foundation's Role**: The Live Love Laugh Foundation, founded by Padukone, has been instrumental in advocating for mental health awareness and will play a crucial role in this new initiative [https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/deepika-padukone-appointed-as-indias-first-mental-health-ambassador-meaningful-steps-to/4006182]. ### Conclusion: A Step Forward for Mental Health in India **Deepika Padukone's appointment as India's first Mental Health Ambassador marks a pivotal moment in the country's approach to mental health.** 1. **Increased Awareness**: The initiative aims to enhance public understanding of mental health issues and reduce stigma. 2. **Support Systems**: It will promote access to mental health services and encourage early intervention practices. 3. **Collaborative Efforts**: The partnership with existing mental health programs will strengthen the overall support system for individuals facing mental health challenges. This initiative is expected to foster a more supportive environment for mental health in India, encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of judgment [https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/deepika-padukone-appointed-as-india-s-first-mental-health-ambassador-101663123204052.html][https://www.moneycontrol.com/entertainment/bollywood/deepika-padukone-appointed-as-mental-health-ambassador-by-the-union-ministry-of-health-and-family-welfare-article-13609919.html].