International experts gather at Feeling Minds office; Delhi Summit details shared
American Psychological Association Vice President & CEO Dr. Arthur C. Evans warns: Mental health could become a global catastrophe
Agra: Agra established a new global identity in the field of mental health and emotional education on Sunday as an international psychological dialogue session was held at the office of Feeling Minds on Sikandra–Bodla Road. Renowned global experts came together on one platform to deliberate on contemporary, practical, and policy-related issues surrounding mental health.
The session was graced by Dr. Arthur C. Evans, Vice President and CEO of the American Psychological Association and the internationally acclaimed architect of the Philadelphia Model. He was joined by Dr. Ann Vernon, former President of the Albert Ellis Institute, New York (USA), and Dr. Rainer Kurz, Chief Psychologist at Hukama Analytics Ltd., London, who shared their insights and experiences.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Chinu Agrawal, Founder of Feeling Minds and President of ISMHA A (International Society for Mental Health & Emotional Awareness), emphasized that mental health is not confined to any one nation, culture, or community, but is a global human concern. She stated that meaningful and sustainable solutions are possible only when mental health professionals, policymakers, educators, healthcare providers, parents, and communities across the world work together.
She added that platforms like Feeling Minds and ISMHA A are committed to strengthening this global collaboration, where policy, research, and practice converge to produce concrete and effective action.
Ignoring Mental Health Sensitivity Could Lead to a Global Crisis: Dr. Evans
A key highlight of the program was a special dialogue between Dr. Arthur C. Evans and Dr. Chinu Agrawal, focusing on global mental health challenges, the role of emotional education, the gap between policy and practice, and long-term, actionable strategies for strengthening mental well-being in society.
Dr. Evans warned that unless the world acts collectively and urgently to raise awareness and implement solutions, mental health issues could escalate into a global disaster.
Mental Health Is a Social Responsibility
The chief guest, Mayor Hemlata Diwakar, stated that mental health concerns every section of society, and true development and happiness are possible only when people across all sectors are mentally healthy.
Puran Dawar, President of the Leather and Footwear Industry Council, remarked that it is ironic that artificial intelligence—created through human intellect and innovation—is now contributing to rising depression in many Western countries.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Dr. Sushil Gupta, Vice President of the institution, observed that mental health is no longer merely a medical issue but has become a critical pillar of social responsibility and policymaking. He noted that such international dialogues not only raise awareness but also chart a clear path toward effective and impactful action.
Environmental activist and Supreme Court advocate K.C., along with Dr. S.P. Singh, Principal of St. John’s College, also shared their perspectives.
Three-Day Global Mental Health Policy Summit to Be Held in Delhi
During the program, Dr. Ravindra Agrawal, Treasurer of ISMHA A, shared details of the Global Mental Health Policy Summit–2026, and a digital poster for the event was unveiled.
He announced that the three-day international summit will be held on January 6, 7, and 8 at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. The theme of the summit is “Bridging Policy and Practice – Let Action Speak,” aiming to connect mental health policies with practical implementation.
Dr. Agrawal added that policymakers, researchers, academicians, mental health professionals, clinicians, and social workers from across the globe will participate in roundtable discussions, academic sessions, keynote lectures, poster presentations, and case studies to propose concrete, measurable, and effective solutions for global mental health challenges.
