A series of stress management sessions for Goa Police personnel, under the ‘Manas Mentors’ initiative, is now being rolled out across the state.
The programme follows the recently-conducted statewide survey in which police personnel shared insights into their mental health challenges, highlighting the need for targeted support and intervention.
The ‘Manas Mentors’ initiative, was launched by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant in December last year.
The first in a series of sessions on Stress Management was successfully conducted today at the Goa Reserve Police (GRP) Headquarters, Altinho, Panaji.
The session was led by Aresh Naik, a noted mental health expert and Chairperson of Sangath. In his address, Assistant Professor at Parvatibai Chowgule College – Naik focussed on the unique psychological pressures faced by police personnel, including long hours, high-stakes decision-making, exposure to traumatic events, and the constant need for vigilance. He offered practical tools for recognising early signs of stress, managing emotional fatigue, and building resilience through mindfulness, effective communication, and support networks.
The Manas Mentors initiative is a joint collaboration between Indian Medical Association (IMA) Bicholim , Sangath, and the Vianaar Group. It aims to empower frontline professionals with evidence-based mental health education and support strategies tailored to their occupational needs.
Sucheta Dessai, Superintendent of Police (Training), graced the occasion as chief guest. In her remarks, she emphasised the importance of mental well-being in law enforcement and lauded the organisers for initiating a timely and much-needed intervention.
“A healthy mind is crucial to effective policing. This initiative helps create a safe space for our personnel to understand and manage stress proactively,” she noted.
The inaugural session saw participation from over 120 police personnel from various police stations in and around Panaji. Attendees engaged in interactive discussions and practical exercises, and many expressed appreciation for the focus on mental health — a subject often neglected in high-pressure professions.
The Manas Mentors stress management sessions will be conducted across multiple venues throughout Goa over the coming weeks, ensuring broad-based outreach and impact within the police force.
Eleven such programmes are planned in this month which will cover all police stations n other units till 20th May 2025.
