Students should understand their strengths and weaknesses, prioritise mental health and make constructive use of the opportunities available during college days, said psychiatrist Virupaksha Devaramane on Monday.

He was speaking at ‘Abhivinyasa’, an orientation programme for newly admitted undergraduate students, organised by G. Shankar Government Women’s First Grade College and Postgraduate Study Centre at the Town Hall in Udupi on Monday.

Describing student life as a “gold mine of opportunities”, Dr. Devaramane said young people had access to numerous opportunities, but an abundance of choices could also lead to complacency.

“Analyse your personality and identify your strengths and weaknesses in the first year itself,” he said, stressing the importance of emotional awareness and self-regulation.

Students should learn to gradually overcome frustration, rejection and feelings of inferiority, he added.

Mental health was as important as physical health, he said. Students experiencing loneliness, depression or other emotional difficulties should speak openly about them and seek help when required. The 14416 helpline could also be contacted for support, he said.

Maintaining a close relationship with parents was important, he said, while cautioning students against allowing peer pressure or romantic relationships to affect their education.

He also urged them to stay away from alcohol and drugs and make responsible choices during their college years.

Published - August 10, 2026 09:04 pm IST