A SAMARPAN Program (Prevention of Suicide, Substance abuse, Abuse and Neglect, Eating problems, Peer pressure, Managing emotions and Behavioural problems) among children in primary school of Karnataka State.

Issues related to mental health account for 13% - 20%of the global burden of disease and injury in primary scholars. Halfof all mental health issues start at a young age, but remain undetectedand untreated. Lack of self-control, emotional instability, andnegative thinking are the root causes of mental health disorders. Theconsequences of not addressing adolescent mental health issues extend intoadulthood, impairing both physical & mental health and limitingopportunities to lead fulfilling lives as adults. Promoting mental hygieneand protecting this vulnerable group of children from risk factors are important for a healthyadulthood.

Therefore, this SAMARPANprogram is designed for theneed-based assessment of the currentgeneration. The issues addressed in this program are related to suicide, substance abuse, eating disorders,abuse & neglect, Peer pressure, Managing emotions, and Behavioural problems. A three-dayworkshop will be conducted in randomly selected schools from 31 districts of Karnataka state by an expert panel. Thisambitious project aims to cover a total population of 15,000 schoolchildren and primary teachers from31 districts of Karnataka. The project firmly believes that early awareness for the children in the primary school age group

will help in influencingthe decision-making ability of the participants, development of assertivecommunication, coping with the schooland family stress and behaviour to overcome the peer pressure often faced by the preschooler’sand to lead a healthy society for thisbeloved nation, India.