Pune: FLAME University’s Centre for Research in Wellbeing and Happiness (CRWBH) marked World Mental Health Day with its 1st Annual Symposium on “Intervention Pathways to Wellbeing: Families, Communities, and the Lifecycle Approach.”
The event brought together scholars, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore evidence-based strategies that foster wellbeing across all stages of life.
FLAME University Highlights Role of Families and Communities in Mental Health
The symposium at FLAME University featured insightful sessions examining the role of families, communities, and social structures in promoting psychological wellbeing.
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Chaired by leading experts, the plenary and panel discussions addressed issues such as changing family dynamics, social isolation, and the growing impact of technology on mental health—particularly among youth and the elderly.
Speakers included Prof Dishan Kamdar, Vice-Chancellor, FLAME University; Vallabh Bhanshali, Member, Governing Body, FLAME University; Prof S V Subramanian, Harvard University; and Dr Rajiv Kumar, Former Vice-Chairman, NITI Aayog. The event underscored the importance of inclusive and community-driven interventions to enhance mental health resilience.
CRWBH Releases Report on Elderly Wellbeing in India
A major highlight of the symposium was the release of CRWBH’s first flagship policy report, “Later Life in India: Ageing Well in Perspective.”
The report revealed that 26–28% of elderly men and 30–35% of elderly women in India experience elevated depressive symptoms, particularly in conflict-affected regions. The findings emphasize the connection between social instability, isolation, and declining mental wellbeing.
Experts called for policy-driven, community-based interventions focused on improving financial security, family caregiving support, and long-term care systems for India’s elderly.
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FLAME University Reinforces Its Commitment to Interdisciplinary Research
Marking one year of its establishment, FLAME University’s CRWBH reaffirmed its commitment to advancing interdisciplinary research in wellbeing and happiness.
Through its work across psychology, economics, public health, and sociology, the Centre continues to generate actionable insights to inform public policy and promote mental wellness at the societal level.
Reflecting on the Centre’s mission, Prof. Dishan Kamdar noted, “India’s progress cannot be measured by GDP alone. True growth lies in empathy, inclusion, and the science of happiness.”
The symposium concluded with an interactive open-floor session, encouraging participants to share reflections and recommendations for future wellbeing initiatives.
