St Xavier’s College has appointed three psychological counsellors who will help students cope with anxiety and depression resulting from the lockdown.

Students will be able to contact the counsellors through email or by phone and seek their help if they are going through any mental health problem because of the 21-day nationwide lockdown, Father Dominic Savio, the principal of St Xavier’s College, said.

“We are under lockdown. Many are worried about the uncertain future. Some students may be experiencing anxiety and helplessness. The counsellors can offer some guidance to the students on how to manage their mental health problems during this period,” the principal said.

Students will not have to pay anything for the service.

Many students, especially those who are in the final year and are planning to join institutes in other states or abroad for higher studies, are worried about their future.

Students from all sections of society study at the college. The uncertainty caused by the lockdown can impact those from economically backward families.

“The need of the hour for all of us is to stay calm and composed in this unprecedented crisis. We want to be equipped with a facility that would help all sections of students deal with the crisis,” the principal said.

The college has initially appointed three counsellors to guide the students. But more can be engaged if the demand increases, Father Savio said.

Details of the counsellors such as their phone numbers and the time and days when the students can contact them are available on the college website. All three counsellors will not be available on all days.

Students are also being guided about the various links on mental health provided by the Union ministry of health and family welfare for mental and psychological support.