Mental health issues have been on an increase, particularly during these difficult times. Young
people are struggling to adapt and cope with these massive changes to a life they were once
used to. It was to address these grievances that the Department of Physical Education under
the auspices of the IQAC organized a national webinar on October 10, 2020. The webinar
centered on the topic ‘Adaptive Coping Strategies during the Pandemic.'
Assistant Professor Zaneta D'Mello kicked off the event by talking about the current situation
and how it has impacted the lives of many. She emphasized the need for students to vent or
find ways of coping instead of letting the situation get the better of them.
The webinar saw more than 250 participants spanning the country. Child and
Neuropsychologist, Ms. Nishtha Budhiraja, was the first speaker for the day. She discussed the
difference between stress and anxiety and addressed the stigma around mental health urging
participants to reach out, even if it is just speaking to someone you are comfortable with.
Highlighting problem-focused and emotion focused coping as the two main forms of coping, she
went on to share strategies to cope which included communicating one's struggle, getting a
trusted third person involved, taking time out, and having a routine. She also demonstrated
body squeezing exercise which involve tightening the muscles of the body, to feel in control,
and then slowly releasing.

Sports Psychologist, Dr. Janki Deole, took over for the next session. Drawing an analogy
between the physical body and a tree, she explained how the air around the tree usually goes
unnoticed and is akin to the invisible mind. The need to care for one's mind was highlighted
along with the role of physical activity as a coping strategy. Its many benefits which include
improving mood, reducing stress and pressure, boosting self-esteem and lowering the risk of
anxiety and depression were expounded upon.
Dr. Deole further elaborated on unhealthy and healthy coping strategies and asked the
participants to recognize what they engage in. To cope the right way, she suggested that
individuals recognize sings (how you think, feel and act), make time for themselves and make a
checklist of good habits like exercising and healthy eating.
The last 15 minutes of both the sessions were open for participants to raise any queries directly
with the resource persons. Participants used this opportunity to raise pertinent issues that they
were struggling with and received advice on how to proceed towards improving their mental
health.