IIT Madras introduces ‘PREM’, ‘SAFE’ initiatives to support student mental health

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has launched initiatives that will support student well-being. These include an interactive session for parents on how they can understand and support their children during college life in a better way.

IIT Madras organised PREM – Parents’ Role in Encouraging and Mentoring on September 9, 2026, as part of its week-long observance of World Suicide Prevention Day. The online session was conducted by Dr Yamini Kannapan, Senior Consultant Psychiatrist, Behavioural Science, Kauvery Hospital.

The session was arranged to help parents understand students’ needs, communicate and provide emotional and mental wellbeing support to the kids. During the session, IIT Madras highlighted the fact that starting college can be challenging for both students and their families. Hence, parental support will be an important part of a student's overall wellbeing.

Speaking on the occasion, V Kamakoti, director, IIT Madras, said, “Happiness is a collective responsibility. As an Institute, we are continuously evolving methods to reduce stress among our bright children. The PREM and SAFE initiatives are launched for this purpose.”

IIT Madras: SAFE handbook for parents

During the event, the institute has also introduced the SAFE – Building Psychological Safety for High-Achieving Students handbook. The handbook shares practical guidance for parents on four areas: Secure Base, Autonomy Support, Failure-Friendly Mindset and Early Recognition.

The SAFE framework will help parents build a supportive environment for students when they face pressure from institutes, setbacks, or other challenges during their college journey. In addition to SAFE, IIT Madras has launched the MiTR Wellness website and Wellness app, which will allow students to check counselling appointments more easily while maintaning confidentially. They can speak with wellness professionals based on their choice and select their language preference through the Office of the Dean (Students) website.

Sathyanarayana N Gummadi, dean of students, added, “We consider parents as important partners in ensuring the wellbeing of our students on Campus. As a part of our Kushal initiative, we regularly reach out to them through WhatsApp to ensure that they remain connected to their wards and in case their child is unhappy for any reason, it is flagged to appropriate authority for possible resolution.”