An Initiative Rooted in
Evidence & Empathy
The Prof. Raghu Raghavan initiative is an accessible, informative online learning platform designed to build Mental Health Literacy across India — grounded in decades of community research and clinical experience.
Why We Built This
The Problem
Over 20 crore people in India are suffering from various mental illnesses, yet a vast majority never access support. Stigma creates a major barrier — 80–90% of those experiencing mental ill-health in India do not seek help. A low level of mental health literacy prevents people from recognising signs of distress in themselves or others.
Our Approach
We believe that knowledge is the first step toward change. This platform provides structured, culturally sensitive education — shifting the focus away from the traditional disease model to a strength-based approach of emotional wellbeing and resilience. All content is grounded in peer-reviewed research and real-world community practice.
The Evidence
Every module draws from years of community mental health work, randomised controlled trials, and direct engagement with schools, colleges, and organisations across India. The content is grounded in WHO guidelines, the Mental Healthcare Act 2017, NCRB data, and India-specific epidemiological research.
Led by Prof. Raghu Raghavan PhD
Professor Raghu Raghavan is a Professor of Mental Health at De Montfort University with over 25 years of experience in clinical practice, research, and education. His work focuses on improving mental health outcomes through community engagement, cultural sensitivity, and accessible education across India.
He has led research programmes totalling over four million pounds in funding, supervised more than 21 doctoral completions, and published extensively on topics ranging from intellectual disabilities to public mental health promotion in India.
This platform is the culmination of years of work on mental health literacy — building on community-based interventions across Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and other Indian states. It represents his commitment to making evidence-based mental health education accessible to everyone, everywhere.
What is Mental Health Literacy?
We devote our whole lives to learning how to read, write, and manage our finances. Yet regarding the most complex machine we will ever handle — our own mind — we often end up completely uneducated. Mental health literacy changes that.
Information
Knowledge of how mental health operates, what determines it, and how to recognise distress — in yourself and in people you care about.
Language
The ability to speak about mental health correctly — without stigmatising, dismissing, or using language that causes harm.
Action
The skills to act — knowing where to seek help, how to support others compassionately, and which self-help strategies are evidence-based.
“When mental health is viewed as a vital strength to be nurtured rather than a weakness to hide, the entire conversation changes. That shift in perspective is the very foundation of mental health literacy.”— Prof. Raghu Raghavan
A Welcome from the Community
There is a widespread misconception that mental health is a topic reserved only for hospitals and clinics. This initiative is built to transform that belief.
“Mental health is not something to fear. It is a basic, universal part of being human. Just like everyone has physical health that needs daily attention, everyone has mental health that also needs to be actively nurtured.”
“Mental wellness is a very active, dynamic state — the deep ability to deal with the complexities of everyday life. It is the resilience to bow, rather than snap, in the face of adversity.”
For Organisations
We work with schools, colleges, universities, corporate bodies, and NGOs to bring mental health literacy training to their communities. Interested in bulk enrolment or a custom training programme? Get in touch.
Schools
Age-appropriate mental health awareness for students, and foundational training for teachers and pastoral staff.
Colleges & Universities
Supporting student wellbeing through structured literacy programmes that complement existing counselling services.
Corporates
Workplace mental health education that builds awareness among managers and employees — reducing burnout and absenteeism.
NGOs
Training community health workers and volunteers with practical, fieldwork-ready knowledge in mental health literacy.
Ready to Begin?
Start with our free introductory module and see how mental health literacy can make a difference — for you and your community.
Start Free Module