BRICS nations unite at Delhi conference to tackle mental health stigma for youth

What Happened

Delegates from BRICS countries and other nations gathered in New Delhi for the 11th Together Against Stigma conference to call for stronger teamwork in fighting mental health discrimination. The event runs from November 12 to 14, 2026, at AIIMS New Delhi, marking the first time a Global South country has hosted this conference. Key priorities identified at the meet include youth involvement, school programs, community care, and policy changes based on solid evidence.

Youth Role and School Care

Panellists stressed the rule of "Nothing About Us Without Us," stating that young people and individuals with personal experience of mental health conditions must help shape policies and fight bias. Schools were pointed out as vital places for early spotting and help. The conference spotlighted Brazil's work in training teachers to spot emotional distress and connect students with public health care.

Workforce and Studies

NIMHANS Director Y. C. Janardhan Reddy stated that the National Digital Academy has trained nearly 50,000 professionals through 38 accredited courses and 72 programmes. The George Institute for Global Health India shared results from its ARTEMIS study in Indian slums and the SATHI study in tribal groups. Y. K. Sandhya, Programme Lead for Mental Health at the institute, noted that local anti-stigma campaigns helped change attitudes and lower depression and anxiety in teens.

Context

Mental health stigma often stops people from seeking help early, which makes community-based care and school programs very important for young populations. International networks like BRICS allow countries facing similar social challenges to share successful training models and healthcare strategies.