Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, in association with FEC & IQAC, successfully organised an insightful programme on 10.10.2026
The Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, in association with FEC & IQAC, successfully organised an insightful programme titled “The Happy Faculty: Cultivating Positive Mental Health at the Workplace” on 10 October 2026 at the SACAS Auditorium.
The session was led by Dr. Chitra Aravind, RCI-Certified Consultant Psychologist and Director of MANAS, who shared valuable insights into the significance of mental health, emotional well-being, and psychological resilience in the workplace. The programme highlighted the importance of recognising workplace stressors, understanding emotional responses, and adopting healthy coping strategies to maintain a balance between professional responsibilities and personal well-being.
A key highlight of the session was the introduction to mindfulness and its practical application in everyday life. Participants gained an understanding of how mindfulness can help individuals remain present, become more aware of their thoughts and emotions, manage stress effectively, and respond to challenging situations with greater calmness and clarity. The discussion emphasised how incorporating simple mindfulness practices into daily routines can improve emotional regulation, concentration, self-awareness, and overall psychological well-being.
The session was highly interactive, with faculty members actively engaging in discussions and raising numerous queries related to mental health, workplace challenges, stress management, and emotional well-being. Dr. Chitra Aravind addressed these queries with thoughtful explanations and practical guidance, helping participants gain greater clarity and a deeper understanding of the concerns discussed. The open and supportive interaction encouraged participants to reflect on their experiences, share their perspectives, and explore constructive ways of managing everyday challenges.
The programme provided a valuable opportunity for faculty members to reflect on the importance of prioritising their mental health alongside their professional commitments. It reinforced the understanding that a positive workplace begins with psychological well-being, self-awareness, and mutual support. The insights shared during the session encouraged participants to incorporate mindfulness into their daily lives and contribute towards creating a healthier, happier, and more supportive work environment.
The programme was a meaningful step towards promoting mental health awareness among faculty members and fostering a culture that values emotional wellness, resilience, and positive relationships in the workplace.
Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, organised a special Mental Health Day observance titled “Care Beyond Clean Spaces” for the housekeeping staff on 7 October 2026
The Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, organised a special Mental Health Day observance titled “Care Beyond Clean Spaces” for the housekeeping staff on 7 October 2026 at TF 01. The initiative aimed to promote mental well-being through happiness, recreation, social interaction and appreciation.
The event featured engaging activities including Musical Chairs, Passing the Ball and Squid Game-inspired games, creating a cheerful and inclusive atmosphere. A special DJ session added energy and encouraged the participants to relax, enjoy music and interact with one another. Students actively supported the housekeeping staff throughout the activities, fostering team spirit, communication and social bonding.
Prizes were awarded to the winners, while all participants received tokens of appreciation. The programme also provided students an opportunity to express gratitude for the housekeeping staff’s valuable contribution to maintaining a clean and comfortable campus. The celebration concluded on a joyful note, reinforcing the message that care goes beyond clean spaces—it includes caring for the people who make those spaces possible.
Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts & Science, organised a Mental Health Awareness Initiative at Besant Nagar Beach, Chennai, on 5 October 2026
The Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts & Science, organised a Mental Health Awareness Initiative at Besant Nagar Beach, Chennai, on 5 October 2026, from 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The initiative aimed to promote mental health awareness through meaningful interactions with the public in a relaxed and familiar environment.
Students engaged the public through 7–10 interactive groups, involving people from diverse age groups and backgrounds. Discussions focused on mental well-being, emotional health, stress management, coping strategies, stigma, self-care, and the importance of seeking psychological support.
A key takeaway from the interaction was the need to understand mental health as more than the absence of psychological disorders. The initiative highlighted the positive role of healthy environments, social connections, recreation, and emotional support in promoting well-being.
The programme also encouraged participants to recognise early signs of distress, overcome stigma, and seek appropriate professional help when required.
Department of Psychology of S.A. College of Arts and Science (SACAS) organised a Suicide Prevention Awareness Programme on 16.09.2026
The Department of Psychology of S.A. College of Arts and Science (SACAS) organised a Suicide Prevention Awareness Programme at Iyyappakkam Park on 16 September 2026, from 4.30 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. The programme aimed to create awareness about suicide prevention and emphasise the importance of emotional support, empathy, active listening and timely help-seeking.
As part of the initiative, Psychology students presented a thought-provoking mime performance highlighting the emotional struggles faced by individuals experiencing distress. Through expressive actions, the students conveyed the importance of recognising behavioural changes, listening without judgement, offering support and encouraging professional help when necessary.
The programme also sought to reduce the stigma surrounding conversations on emotional well-being and encouraged members of the public to extend care and support to those in need. The initiative reflected the Department of Psychology’s commitment to mental health awareness, social responsibility, empathy and community well-being.
Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, organised a Suicide Awareness Programme on 10 September 2026
The Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, organised a Suicide Awareness Programme on 10 September 2026, involving the II B.Sc. Psychology students. The awareness activity was conducted at Thiruverkadu Bus Terminal, Poonamallee Bus Terminal, and Avadi Bus Terminal to promote awareness about suicide prevention, mental health, and the importance of seeking timely support.
As part of the programme, students interacted with people from different age groups and backgrounds, including school and college students, older adults, commuters, passengers, and bus travellers. They shared information on recognising warning signs of emotional distress, supporting those who may be struggling, the importance of communication and emotional support, and seeking professional help when needed.
The programme gave students valuable hands-on experience in community outreach, public interaction, communication, and suicide prevention awareness, while encouraging them to take mental health awareness beyond the classroom and contribute to a more supportive community.
Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, organized an awareness programme on 20 August 2026
The Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, organized an awareness programme titled “Ambition Over Addiction” on 20 August 2026 at the College Auditorium. The programme brought together students and volunteers from different departments, creating an energetic and interactive learning environment.
Ms. Valli, Senior Counsellor, TTK Hospitals, conducted an engaging and insightful session on addiction and its impact on individuals, families, and society. She shared several real-life case examples from her counselling experience, helping students understand the challenges faced by individuals struggling with addiction and the importance of timely psychological support and intervention.
The session featured cheerful interactive activities, role plays, discussions, and practical examples, encouraging students to actively participate and reflect on real-life situations. Through these activities and case-based learning, students gained valuable insights into addiction, coping strategies, decision-making, and the importance of seeking support.
The enthusiastic participation of students and volunteers from different departments made the programme lively, meaningful, and memorable. The session concluded with a strong message to students to make healthy choices, pursue their goals, and always choose “Ambition Over Addiction.”
Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, organized the Investiture Ceremony on 20 August 2026
The Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, organized the Investiture Ceremony on 20 August 2026 at the College Auditorium. The ceremony marked a significant occasion as the newly appointed student leaders were formally inducted and presented with their batches, symbolizing their responsibilities and commitment to leadership.
Dr. K. S. Ramesh, Director – Education, Banyan Academy of Leadership in Mental Health, delivered an insightful and thought-provoking speech for the Psychology students, focusing on mental health, emotional well-being, and the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by cancer. He highlighted the importance of psychological support, empathy, resilience, and understanding the emotional and social difficulties experienced by people facing serious life challenges.
The Principal of S.A. College of Arts and Science also addressed the students with words of guidance and encouragement, emphasizing the importance of responsibility, compassion, and meaningful leadership.
The ceremony provided the students with valuable insights into the role of psychology in promoting mental well-being and supporting individuals through challenging life situations. The programme concluded on an inspiring note, encouraging students to carry their responsibilities with empathy, confidence, and dedication.
Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, conducted a Study Skills Training Programme 29 June 2026
The Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, conducted a Study Skills Training Programme at Padma Subramaniam Bala Bhavan Higher Secondary School on 29 June 2026. The training was conducted by a faculty member from the Department of Psychology, with the objective of helping school students develop effective study habits and improve their academic learning strategies.
The session focused on essential study skills such as time management, effective planning, concentration, goal setting, note-taking, memory enhancement, revision strategies, and managing academic stress. The students were encouraged to identify suitable learning methods and develop a structured approach to their studies. Practical strategies were discussed to help students make their study time more productive and maintain consistency in their academic preparation.
Six students from the Department of Psychology observed the entire session, gaining valuable practical exposure to the planning and delivery of a student-oriented training programme. Their observation helped them understand how psychological concepts and learning strategies can be effectively applied in an educational setting.
The programme provided a meaningful learning experience for both the school students and the observing psychology students, highlighting the role of psychology in promoting effective learning, academic well-being, and healthy study practices.
Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, organized a guest lecture on 10.07.2026
The Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, organized a guest lecture on “Basic Counselling Skills” on 10 July 2026, with Dr. Ananthi Karthik as the resource person. The session was organized to provide students with a practical understanding of the fundamental skills required for effective counselling.
The session focused on essential counselling skills such as active listening, empathy, effective communication, rapport building, questioning, observation, reflection, paraphrasing, summarising, and maintaining confidentiality. Students gained an understanding of how these skills contribute to building a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship with clients.
The resource person also highlighted the importance of maintaining a non-judgmental attitude, respecting individual differences, and creating a safe environment where clients feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions. Practical examples and interactive discussions helped students understand how basic counselling skills can be applied in different counselling situations.
The guest lecture provided students with valuable practical insights and enhanced their awareness of the professional skills and ethical attitudes required for effective counselling practice. The session served as a meaningful learning experience, enabling students to connect their theoretical knowledge with practical applications in the field of psychology.
Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, organized a field visit on 18.08.2026
The Department of Psychology, S.A. College of Arts and Science, organized a field visit to Adyar Cancer Institute on 18 August 2026, providing students with valuable practical exposure to the psychological and emotional aspects of cancer care.
During the visit, students gained insights into the psychological challenges faced by individuals with cancer, including fear, anxiety, emotional distress, uncertainty, difficulties in coping with diagnosis and treatment, and concerns related to quality of life. The visit also helped students understand how cancer can affect not only patients but also their families and caregivers.
A key learning from the visit was the importance of psycho-oncology, an interdisciplinary field that focuses on the psychological, social, and behavioural aspects of cancer. Students learned about the role of psychological support in helping patients cope with illness, manage emotional distress, improve adjustment to treatment, and enhance overall well-being. The visit highlighted the importance of integrating psychological care with medical treatment to provide holistic and patient-centred cancer care.
The field visit served as a meaningful learning experience, enabling students to connect their theoretical knowledge with real-world healthcare practices and develop greater empathy, sensitivity, and professional understanding of the needs of individuals affected by cancer.
