In many tribal communities of Wayanad, Kerala, the concept of mental health and well-being is still unfamiliar—and so is the idea of having someone to talk to about what they’re going through, whether it is stress, addiction, or emotional distress. Distance, both physical and social, keeps care out of reach.
On February 25, 2026, that distance began to narrow.
District 318E donated a jeep valued at ₹8 lakhs to the Mental Health Action Trust (MHAT), enabling counsellors and volunteers to travel into remote parts of Wayanad. The vehicle takes mental health services directly to communities that would otherwise remain underserved, with nearly 1,500 people expected to benefit from this outreach.
Alongside this, a mental well-being clinic has been inaugurated at the Lions Hospital in Wayanad, creating a consistent point of care. Set up under the aegis of the Mental Health Action Trust, the clinic operates on a weekly basis. Plans are underway to develop this into a rehabilitation centre for individuals dealing with addiction and psychiatric conditions.
These interventions build on a series of earlier efforts across the district.
During the Mental Health and Well-being Service Week (October 4 to 12, 2025), Lions Clubs across District 318E organised a series of initiatives that brought conversations around mental well-being into everyday settings—walkathons, school sessions, stress management programs in hospitals, outreach in old-age homes, and counselling support for individuals with mental health concerns.
A television set was also donated to the psychiatry ward at the Government Medical College Hospital, adding a small but meaningful element of comfort for patients.
Together, these efforts, led by District Governor Ravi Gupta PMJ and supported by Dr. Sudha Krishnanunni MJF, Chief District Coordinator, Mental Health and Well-being, reflect a clear approach: build awareness, and then ensure access.