In an effort to normalise conversations around anxiety, focus on the importance of mental health and create an in-campus peer support group to have a safe space, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal in collaboration with Student Affairs (Manipal Academy of Higher Education, MAHE) organised a peer support workshop on 2-3 March, 2020. The workshop was led by Dr Geetha Mayya and her esteemed team of counsellors who discussed on various aspects of anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. They also incorporated various group activities, to involve students of different batches; who had volunteered to attend the session over two days.

In collaboration with Dr Reddy’s foundation for health education, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal also organised a Behavioural and Soft Skill workshop for its postgraduate students. Mr. Subhash Hegde, a Certified Behavioural Analyst and Wellness Coach was the resource person. The program was inaugurated by the Dean, Dr Keerthilatha M Pai, and Associate Dean, Dr Vidya Saraswathi. This was followed by an interactive session on presentation skills. The essentials of time management and empathy together with the importance of behaviour and soft skills needed for healthcare professionals were emphasised.