The weight behind "I'm Fine": Saathi Support at Mata Sundri College

What does “I’m fine” really mean when someone is struggling? Saathi Support explored this question through “I’m Fine... Right?”, a conversation on recognising signs of emotional distress with Akshitara (That Desi Psychologist). The session was held on 6th August 2026 at Mata Sundri College, in collaboration with the Department of Psychology, to mark National Mental Health Awareness Day. 

Saathi Support has recently been introduced at Mata Sundri College and the session was organised to introduce students to the programme while creating awareness about emotional well-being and normalising conversations around seeking timely support. The event was attended by a total of 110 students. 

The Principal of Mata Sundri College, in her welcome address, spoke about how health is not limited to physical well-being but also includes mental well-being. She encouraged students to seek support whenever they needed it and welcomed Saathi Support as a valuable resource for the college community.

The session brought help-seeking into focus, looking at why reaching out can feel difficult even when someone knows they may need support. Akshitara spoke about approaching difficult emotions and everyday challenges, while Aahana, Assistant Research Coordinator with Saathi Support, and Sheeza Ali, a former Saathi, introduced students to the programme. They explained how Saathi Support provides free and confidential student-to-student support, helping students learn positive coping skills and feel less alone while dealing with difficult experiences.

The conversation also gave students an opportunity to reflect on their own experiences with seeking help. Many shared that they worried others might not understand what they were going through. Some felt that accepting they needed support could make their struggles feel more “real”, while others felt that dealing with difficulties on their own gave their experiences more meaning or simply seemed easier than opening up. One student summed up this feeling by saying, “It’s difficult to be vulnerable when everyone knows you as the ‘strong friend’.” The conversation opened up some of the less visible reasons why students may hesitate to reach out for support, with fear, uncertainty, and the pressure they place on themselves making vulnerability harder.

Later, students stopped by the information booth to pick up programme materials like bookmarks, stickers, postcards, and zines. Some also spoke to the team about the programme and how they or someone they know could access support.  For many, it was their first introduction to Saathi Support, making the event an important step towards building awareness of peer mental health support on campus.