In an era marked by constant digital connectivity yet growing emotional isolation, leading mental health experts gathered in East Delhi to address one of the most pressing public health concerns of our time. A focused seminar titled “Loneliness & Depression: Implications & Solutions” was organised.

The event brought together psychiatrists, geriatric specialists, counsellors, and members of the public to discuss the silent epidemic of loneliness and its deep links with depression. The auditorium saw a diverse audience, including senior citizens, working professionals, and young adults, reflecting how this issue cuts across all age groups.
Prof. (Dr.) Nimesh Desai, Former Director of the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS), set the tone with a powerful opening remark. “We live in an age of constant connectivity yet deep emotional isolation,” he noted. “Loneliness is no longer just an emotional state. It has emerged as a significant risk factor linked to depression, anxiety, cardiovascular diseases, and weakened immunity.”
Dr. Harijit Singh Bhatti, a renowned Healthy Ageing Activist and Geriatric Specialist (MD, AIIMS, New Delhi), highlighted the vulnerability of senior citizens. He pointed out that social isolation after retirement often accelerates physical and mental decline. However, he stressed that working professionals and youth are equally affected due to hectic schedules, nuclear families, and excessive reliance on social media.
Dr. Deepika Verma, Consultant Psychiatrist at Pushpanjali Medical Centre, outlined the hidden signs of depression that often go unnoticed. “Many people mistake persistent fatigue, loss of interest in daily activities, irritability, and emotional numbness as normal stress,” she said. “Recognising these early signals is crucial for timely intervention.”
The session was moderated by Ms. Poonam Gaur, Counsellor and Director of RAHEE, and Ms. Rashmi Dhuriya, Founder & Lead Clinical Psychologist at STHIR – The Mind’s Clinic. The panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Druhin Grover and Dr. Prabhani Bindra, both Consultant Psychiatrists at Pushpanjali Medical Centre, focused on practical, real-world coping strategies.
The event was organised by by Dr. Vinay Aggarwal, former president of Indian Medical Association (IMA) and head of Pushpanjali Medical Education & Research Centre, in collaboration with RAHEE and the Subhashan Foundation.
Experts emphasised the importance of building “micro-connections” — small but consistent real-life interactions such as regular walks, family meals, or joining community groups. They advised reducing mindless scrolling on social media and encouraged open conversations within families and workplaces. The panel unanimously agreed that seeking professional help should be normalised rather than stigmatised.
A highlight of the evening was a powerful street play performed by the Asmita Theatre Group. Through relatable scenes, the play depicted the struggles of a young professional, an elderly person living alone, and a college student battling silent despair. The performance ended with a strong message: “You are not alone. Break the silence.” The audience responded with sustained applause, many visibly moved by the portrayal of lived realities.
Dr. Vinay Aggarwal, while addressing the gathering, said the objective of the seminar was not just awareness but action. “Breaking the silence is the first step toward healing,” he stated. “Such platforms are essential for normalising help-seeking behaviour and building emotionally supportive communities.”
The seminar concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session where attendees shared personal experiences and sought advice. Organisers distributed resource pamphlets listing helplines, counselling services at Pushpanjali Medical Centre, and details of follow-up support programmes by RAHEE and Subhashan Foundation.
Mental health professionals present warned that loneliness now rivals traditional risk factors like smoking and obesity in its impact on public health. They called for greater community involvement, workplace mental health programmes, and stronger family bonds to combat this growing challenge.
The event has received appreciation from participants, many of whom described it as timely and deeply relevant. Several attendees committed to joining support groups and spreading awareness in their own circles.
With rising cases of anxiety and depression reported across urban India, initiatives like this seminar play a vital role in shifting societal attitudes. Pushpanjali Medical Education & Research Centre, RAHEE, and the Subhashan Foundation plan to organise similar programmes in the coming months, aiming to reach more sections of society.
In a fast-paced cities like Mumbai and Delhi, where millions live surrounded by people yet often feel profoundly alone, such efforts offer a beacon of hope reminding citizens that help is available and healing begins with a single conversation.

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