Fostering Mental Health, Building Drug-Free Communities
AUKHAD is a flagship mental health and drug-free awareness initiative of the Department of Psychology, Akal University, Talwandi Sabo. Conceptualized and coordinated by Dr. Pawan Kumar, the program reflects the University’s commitment to fostering psychological well-being and building socially responsible communities. The title “AUKHAD” symbolically represents healing and remedy- emphasizing the importance of awareness, prevention, and timely psychological support in addressing mental health challenges and substance abuse issues among youth and society at large.
Vision
To cultivate mentally healthy, resilient, and drug-free individuals through education, awareness, early identification, and community engagement.
Mission
- To promote scientific understanding of mental health among students and the wider community.
- To prevent substance abuse through awareness, sensitization, and early intervention.
- To align institutional efforts with national educational and public health guidelines.
- To strengthen university–community partnerships for social well-being.
Key Components of AUKHAD
Workshops, seminars, expert lectures, and interactive sessions are regularly conducted to address issues such as stress management, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and positive coping strategies.
Special sessions are organized to educate students about the psychological, social, and legal consequences of substance abuse. The initiative promotes healthy lifestyle choices and resilience-building skills.
Basic psychological screening programs help in early identification of mental health concerns. Students are guided toward appropriate counselling and professional support when required.
Faculty members and trained student volunteers actively participate in outreach activities, awareness drives, and peer-support initiatives, promoting a culture of empathy and collective responsibility.
AUKHAD extends beyond the university campus by conducting programs in schools, colleges, and community settings. These outreach efforts aim to create awareness at the grassroots level and contribute to building drug-free communities.
Faculty
The AUKHAD initiative follows the broader framework of mental health promotion and substance abuse prevention recommended by higher education and public health authorities. It emphasizes preventive education, early intervention, and community participation as key pillars for sustainable social change.
Through structured programs, awareness campaigns, and community engagement, AUKHAD has contributed to:
- Increased mental health literacy among students.
- Greater openness in discussing psychological concerns.
- Enhanced awareness regarding the risks of substance abuse.
- Strengthened collaboration between the University and society.
AUKHAD reflects the social responsibility of Akal University in addressing contemporary challenges faced by youth. By integrating academic expertise with community service, the initiative serves as a meaningful step toward nurturing mentally strong individuals and building healthier communities for the present and future.
Contact us:
Dr Pawan Kumar
Department of Psychology
Akal University, Talwandi Sabo
aukhud_psy@auts.ac.in
+91-8955203403