In a historic move, the Government of India has appointed Bollywood icon Deepika Padukone as the nation’s first-ever ‘Mental Health Ambassador’. The announcement was made by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), marking a major milestone in India’s ongoing mission to prioritize mental well-being as a key part of public health.

Deepika, who is also the founder of the Live Love Laugh (LLL) Foundation, has been a passionate advocate for mental health awareness for years. Through her foundation, she has worked tirelessly to dismantle stigma and promote open conversations about emotional well-being.

A Partnership for a Healthier Mind and Nation

Speaking on the occasion, Shri J.P. Nadda, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, said:

“This partnership with Smt. Deepika Padukone will help spread awareness about mental health issues, foster open dialogue, and reinforce mental health as a vital part of our public health framework.”

Expressing her gratitude, Deepika said:

“I am deeply honored to serve as the first-ever Mental Health Ambassador for the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has made mental health a national priority. I look forward to working closely with the Ministry to strengthen this movement and build a mentally healthier nation.”

Deepika’s New Role and Mission

As the Mental Health Ambassador, Deepika Padukone will:

  • Lead campaigns to raise awareness and eliminate stigma around mental health.
  • Encourage individuals to seek professional help and adopt proactive mental well-being habits.
  • Promote Tele-MANAS (Tele-Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States) and other government-led initiatives for mental health support.
  • Support the expansion of accessible and affordable mental health services nationwide.

Live Love Laugh: A Decade of Impact

This appointment coincides with the 10th anniversary of Deepika’s Live Love Laugh Foundation, which has profoundly impacted India’s mental health landscape. Over the past decade, the foundation has:

  • Supported over 21,900 individuals with mental illnesses and their caregivers.
  • Operated across 15 districts in 8 states through its Rural Community Mental Health Program.
  • Launched powerful nationwide campaigns such as “Dobara Poocho”, “#NotAshamed”, “You Are Not Alone” (for teenage students), and the “Doctors Program” for general practitioners.
  • Recently initiated a corporate well-being program to foster mental health at workplaces.

As India’s first Mental Health Ambassador, Deepika Padukone’s partnership with the Health Ministry represents more than just a title — it’s a movement toward a more compassionate, aware, and emotionally resilient India.