V-Guard Launches ‘Edam’ Counselling Hub in Kochi for Women’s Mental Health

V-Guard Launches ‘Edam’ Counselling Hub in Kochi for Women’s Mental Health

Kochi, October 10, 2025: As part of its ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, V-Guard Industries Ltd. has launched Edam, a free counselling centre for women in Kochi, in collaboration with Welfare Services Ernakulam (Sahrudaya). The centre was inaugurated on World Mental Health Day, underscoring the need for accessible mental health care tailored for women. The inaugural ceremony was held in Kochi, with Hibi Eden, MP, formally inaugurating the initiative, and Dr. Reenaa Mithun Chittilappilly presiding over the event.

National and international health studies have consistently shown that women are disproportionately affected by stress, depression, and anxiety. Recognising this urgent need, Edam aims to provide a safe and supportive space where women can seek professional counselling, emotional support, and guidance — completely free of charge.

“Along with development in society, the mental health of its people is equally important. However, many are still unwilling to open up about the mental difficulties they experience. Even today, there remains a stigma around us. In this context, the initiative ‘Edam’ launched by V-Guard Industries Limited in collaboration with Sahrudaya is indeed a significant step forward,” said Hibi Eden, MP, while speaking at the inauguration.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Reenaa Mithun Chittilappilly said, “Through Edam, we want to break the silence around mental health and ensure that women have access to the care and support they deserve. This initiative is an extension of V-Guard’s commitment to fostering healthier and more resilient communities. Women often carry invisible burdens while balancing roles at home, at work, and in society. With Edam, we want to give them a safe space to pause, reflect, and heal. This centre is not just about counselling — it’s about empowering women with resilience and hope.”

The initiative ‘Edam’ will operate from the Ponnurunni Welfare Services (Sahrudaya) campus.

For free counselling services, you may contact 9847610707. Services are available Monday to Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

At the heart of Edam is its free, confidential one-on-one counselling service, designed especially for women in need. Highly trained counsellors will provide personalised mental health support in a private and empathetic environment.

Other planned activities during its first phase include:

• Awareness Sessions & Community Outreach: Regular workshops in schools, colleges, and community centres to improve mental health literacy and encourage open conversations around women’s mental well-being.
• Mental Health Screenings & Camps: Community-level assessments to identify early signs of distress and connect women with timely professional support.

By March 2026, Edam aims to directly reach 750+ women in Kochi through awareness and counselling services, with over 350 women expected to benefit from individual counselling sessions.

With this initiative, V-Guard Industries Ltd. reiterates its dedication to building mentally healthy communities and breaking barriers to care ensuring that every woman, regardless of background, has access to confidential, compassionate, and professional mental health support.

Sreekumar A., Vice President, V-Guard Industries Ltd; Saneesh K., Chief Officer – CSR, V-Guard Industries Ltd.; Fr. Joseph Koluthuvallil, Executive Director, Sahrudaya; Fr. Sibin Thomas, Assistant Executive Director; John Joshy K. J., District Social Justice Officer, Ernakulam and Drusya A., Assistant Professor, Bharata Mata College, Thrikkakkara were also present at the inaugural event.