In celebration of World Mental Health Day, observed globally on the 10th of October, the Sri Lanka National Association of Counsellors (SRILNAC) has launched a groundbreaking book titled “Youth: A Mindful Journey.” This initiative, led by SRILNAC President, Carol Gooneratne Amarasekara, seeks to support the mental well-being of young adults aged 17 to 27. The book is the result of collaboration between counsellors, psychologists, and academics, all working together to create a resource that offers practical guidance on mental health for the youth.

“Youth: A Mindful Journey”  the   professionally–crafted trilingual publication ,aims to provide valuable insights into emotional resilience, stress management, dealing with addictions, obsessions, sex education, trauma, memory and focus, relaxation techniques and coping strategies for challenges such as academic pressure, social dynamics, and the effects of digital technology. Speaking about the project, President Gooneratne emphasized its importance: “Today’s youth face immense mental health challenges, and we wanted to offer them a resource that speaks directly to their experiences and concerns, equipping them with awareness and tools to manage their emotional well-being.”

A unique aspect of this project is its social service nature. The book will be donated free of charge to school and university libraries across Sri Lanka, making it widely accessible to students. Educational institutions can request copies to support their students’ mental health needs, ensuring that no one is left behind due to a lack of access to resources.

This initiative aligns with the association’s long-standing mission to improve mental health awareness and support in the country. SRILNAC, founded in 1985 at the Family Studies and Services Institute in Colombo, owes its origins to Rev. Dr. Mervyn Fernando, widely recognized as the “Father of Counselling” in Sri Lanka. Rev. Dr. Fernando’s vision to promote counselling and mental health services has been realized through SRILNAC’s work over the years, and “Youth: A Mindful Journey” is another step in fulfilling that vision. As mental health challenges continue to rise, especially among the youth, this book stands as a significant contribution towards fostering a healthier, more resilient generation. By offering it as a social service, SRILNAC ensures that the message of mindfulness and emotional well-being reaches those who need it the most.