AP universities to set up counselling cells to help students deal with pandemic-induced stress

Vijayawada: As colleges in the state gear up to reopen, the Andhra Pradesh s department of higher education has asked all government universities to set up counselling cells in the campuses to help students deal with the psychological impact of COVID-19.

According to the government, the student community has been hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and the consequential lockdown leading to widespread emotional turmoil, owing to their career being at stake. "As a step towards addressing the same, the government of Andhra Pradesh has decided to actively help the students deal with their psychological issues emerging out of financial, career-oriented as well as any other forms of stress which could push them into a pessimistic sphere," it said in a press note.

To deal with the pressure, the department of higher education has asked all government universities in the state to set up a counselling cell on the campus. Highly-qualified psychology professors will help address the issues of students.

Speaking about the same, special chief secretary Satish Chandra said, "We have noticed that a lot of students are scared about their future and think the COVID-19 can damage their chances of being successful. Some of them also have to deal with other forms of stress due to the lockdown and the outbreak. Mental health is as important as physical health for a student who aims to do well. Due to the same, as per the directions of the Chief Minister, we have undertaken this initiative with the aim of getting such students back to the right path. They need to be told that their careers aren't in danger and that the government and the departments stand with them."