The JSS AHER is committed to the health, wellness and safety of all. Creating a supportive environment at JSS AHER can significantly enhance the Mental Health and Well-Being and productivity of both students and staff.
At JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research (JSS AHER), Mysuru, we are deeply committed to cultivating a safe, healthy, and supportive environment for our staff. We believe that a positive work environment is a fundamental right and essential for fostering productivity, reducing stress, and encouraging strong team dynamics.
A supportive workplace is not only key to improving retention and overall job satisfaction but also minimizes workplace conflicts and tension. By prioritizing mental health and well-being, we aim to create a culture where staff can thrive both personally and professionally.
JSS AHER provides an independent, professional, and confidential service through our Staff Support Center (SSC), available to staff and students alike.
Identifying the signs and symptoms of mental health issues is crucial for seeking timely help and support. While the specific signs may vary depending on the individual and the type of mental health condition, there are some common indicators to be aware of:
Psychological Signs
Physical Signs
Behavioural Signs
It's important to note that experiencing one or more of these signs does not necessarily indicate a mental health issue. However, suppose these signs persist for an extended period (typically two weeks or more) and interfere with daily functioning. In that case, it may be a cause for concern, and seeking professional help is recommended.
Recognizing When to Seek Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent signs of mental health challenges—such as sadness, anxiety, fatigue, or withdrawal—it may be time to seek support. Early intervention can have a significant positive impact.
Contact Us
For support or more information, please reach out to the SSC. We’re here to listen and help.
JSS AHER is dedicated to the health and well-being of every staff member. Together, we can create a workplace where everyone feels supported and valued —reach out today.
Answer: The main objective is to create a safe, healthy, and supportive environment for staff and students, promoting mental well-being, reducing stress, and enhancing productivity and job satisfaction.
Answer: The SSC is a dedicated center that provides confidential and professional mental health services to staff and students. It offers support for personal and work-related issues, including counselling, coping strategies, and conflict resolution.
Answer: The SSC addresses a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, workplace conflict, grief, bereavement, and employment-related challenges.
Answer: The SSC operates from Monday to Saturday, with Sundays and government-declared holidays observed as holidays.
Answer: Yes, all counselling services at the SSC are completely confidential, ensuring privacy and trust for all staff and students.
Answer: The SSC offers a range of support services, including:
Answer: You can access SSC services by contacting the center through their helpline, email, or by scheduling an appointment during office hours.
Answer: Yes, the SSC provides a 24/7 helpline for immediate assistance and support during emergencies.
Answer: If you are experiencing persistent signs of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, sadness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or withdrawal from social activities, for more than two weeks, it’s recommended to seek professional help.
Answer: Yes, the SSC offers resources and guidance to help staff maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Answer: Yes, all services provided by the SSC are free for JSS AHER staff.
Answer: Yes, the SSC provides support services for both staff and students at JSS AHER.
Answer: Encourage them to seek help and share information about the SSC services. If they are open to it, offer to accompany them or assist them in contacting the center.
Answer: You can reach the SSC through:
Answer: The SSC’s 24/7 helpline is available for urgent support at any time.
These initiatives reflect JSS AHER’s holistic approach to mental health, offering a range of activities and resources aimed at supporting staff well-being, from stress management to professional mental health education. The university remains committed to providing a supportive environment where staff can access mental health services and engage in initiatives that promote emotional well-being.
The GERON 2023 conference, organized by the Department of Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Psychology, and Department of Geriatrics at JSS Medical College and Hospital, addressed critical mental health issues faced by elderly individuals. This event also provided mental health professionals, including university staff, with the opportunity to discuss caregiving and relationship dynamics in the elderly. The conference featured renowned experts who shared their insights on enhancing mental health care, which can support staff members involved in elder care.
As part of a broader initiative to empower newly recruited women officers, this program included a session on Stress Management for Officers conducted by Dr. Shivananda Manohar. The 75-minute lecture covered the causes of stress, the biopsychosocial model of stress, and its manifestations. Practical strategies for managing stress, including relaxation techniques, physical activity, and dietary advice, were shared. The importance of resilience as a buffer to stress was also discussed, highlighting the significance of mental well-being in a professional context.
This National CME organized by JSS Medical College and Hospital, in collaboration with the Indian Psychiatric Society, offered a platform for the latest developments in psychiatric practices. The conference covered critical aspects of mental health, such as women’s mental health, child and adolescent psychiatry, and community mental health. The MINDS Club initiative, launched during the event, focuses on safeguarding students' mental health and includes resources for staff mental well-being. The program emphasized the role of leadership in mental health care, providing valuable insights for staff across various disciplines.
The Department of Psychiatry at JSS Hospital, in collaboration with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, observed World Maternal Mental Health Day on 8th May 2024. The event focused on mental health challenges during the perinatal period, offering awareness and resources for staff dealing with mental health concerns related to pregnancy and motherhood. Mental health professionals emphasized the need for continued care and collaboration between departments to ensure staff have access to relevant mental health resources.
The Psycho-oncology Programme, organized by the Department of Clinical Psychology in collaboration with the Department of Medical and Surgical Oncology, provided interdisciplinary learning and patient care during National Cancer Family Awareness Week. This program involved caregivers of cancer patients in focus group discussions (FGDs), helping them cope with the emotional and psychological stress of caregiving. Such initiatives highlight the importance of mental health support for those in caregiving roles, including university staff members who may be managing similar challenges in their personal lives.
The Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology organized the Holistic Wellness Programme on 13th January 2024 titled 'Pathoprayog-7: The Art of Well-Being – Crafting a Flourishing Life'. Led by Mrs. R. Thinusha, a certified health and life coach, this session focused on achieving balance across various dimensions of well-being, offering practical advice for flourishing both professionally and personally. Such wellness programs serve as an important resource for staff to enhance their mental health and overall life satisfaction.
