Deepika’s New Role Marks a Milestone for India
Bollywood actor Deepika Padukone has been officially appointed as India’s first Mental Health Ambassador by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The announcement was made on October 10, 2025, coinciding with World Mental Health Day, a day observed globally to promote mental well-being and awareness. The move marks an important step in placing mental health at the centre of India’s public health initiatives.
Expressing her gratitude, Deepika shared on Instagram, “On World Mental Health Day, I am deeply honoured to be appointed as the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare’s first-ever Mental Health Ambassador. Led by our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, our nation has taken meaningful steps to place mental health at the heart of public health. Through my own journey and the work we have done at The Live Love Laugh Foundation over the past decade, I’ve seen how much is possible when we come together to build a mentally healthy India.”
Her post was accompanied by photos with Health Minister JP Nadda and Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava, taken during her meeting at the ministry.
Government Backs Deepika’s Mental Health Mission
Union Health Minister JP Nadda welcomed her appointment, highlighting how her voice and personal experience could inspire millions to take mental health seriously. “The partnership with Deepika Padukone will help spread awareness about mental health issues, normalise conversations, reduce stigma, and position mental health as a vital component of public health,” he said.
The ministry confirmed that Deepika’s role would focus on strengthening the national dialogue on mental health, encouraging early help-seeking behaviour, and promoting government-backed initiatives such as Tele MANAS — the Tele-Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States program, which provides remote mental health support.
From Personal Struggle to National Advocacy
Deepika has long been recognised as one of India’s most vocal advocates for mental health. In 2015, she founded The Live Love Laugh Foundation after publicly speaking about her own struggle with depression and anxiety. Since then, she has worked consistently to raise awareness, fund community programs, and support those living with mental health challenges.
Her openness about her journey has been instrumental in breaking long-standing stigmas surrounding mental illness in India. Through her foundation, she has launched several campaigns and collaborated with professionals and organisations to create accessible mental health resources for schools, workplaces, and the general public.
Prime Minister Modi’s Message on World Mental Health Day
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the importance of making mental health a mainstream part of national conversations. In a post on X, he wrote, “World Mental Health Day serves as a powerful reminder that mental health is a fundamental part of our overall well-being. In a fast-paced world, this day underscores the importance of reflecting and extending compassion to others. Let us also work collectively to create environments where conversations around mental health become more mainstream. My compliments to all those working in this field and helping others heal and find happiness.”
His message aligned with the Health Ministry’s ongoing efforts to expand access to mental health services and reduce barriers to treatment across India.
A Global Day with Local Impact
World Mental Health Day is observed every year on October 10 and was first initiated by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992. The World Health Organization’s 2025 campaign focuses on addressing the mental health needs of individuals affected by humanitarian crises and promoting equal access to mental health care worldwide.
Deepika’s appointment comes at a crucial time as India continues to strengthen its national mental health framework, with growing awareness and initiatives across education, healthcare, and the workplace. Her leadership and advocacy are expected to bring a renewed focus on empathy, inclusivity, and mental wellness.
With this appointment, Deepika Padukone becomes not just a Bollywood icon but a national symbol of courage and compassion — using her platform to bring mental health to the forefront of India’s social and public health agenda.
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