Cross-country motorcycle expedition brings national mental health campaign to Madurai

Vidiyal organisation, along with mental health survivor and motorcyclist Seher Hashmi, organised a National Mental Health Campaign at The American College on Wednesday.

Ms. Hashmi and her team are currently travelling from Delhi to Kanniyakumari as part of a pan-Indian initiative titled Beyond the Horizon: A Ride for Resilience. The 57-day cross-country motorcycle expedition covers more than 7,000 km and passes through over 50 cities.

The campaign focuses on shifting public perception of mental health from “shame” to “strength”, while highlighting it as a public health and social justice concern.

During the event, Ms. Hashmi urged families to move away from unscientific remedies, such as seeking help from traditional healers or religious sites, and instead seek professional medical and psychological care.

Seher Hashmi interacting with students at The American College in Madurai on Wednesday. | Photo Credit: R. ASHOK