Journalist Nolina Minj Recognized for Mental Health Reporting

Recognition for Mental Health Reporting

Nolina Minj has secured the second position at the 2025 Media for Mental Health Award, organized by the Schizophrenia Research Foundation India, for her insightful coverage on the unregulated landscape of psychological counselling in India.

Based in Chennai, the foundation is dedicated to advancing mental health awareness and support.

The awards were presented during a virtual event held on Friday.

The foundation praised the winners for their impactful storytelling and dedicated reporting, which significantly contribute to the conversation surrounding mental health.

Minj's article, published in January 2025 as part of an in-depth reporting initiative, examines the lack of legal recognition and regulation for various mental health professionals in India.

Her findings highlight the dangers faced by individuals seeking psychological help, as they may encounter unqualified practitioners due to the absence of regulatory measures.

Read: The murky, unregulated world of psychological counselling in India

In the same awards ceremony, independent journalist Sanket Jain was honored with the first prize for his report on the increasing rates of perinatal depression linked to climate change. His article also highlighted the crucial role of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) in addressing these challenges.

This report was produced for The Fuller Project and co-published with another media outlet.

The Schizophrenia Research Foundation India commended Jain for his compelling reporting that underscores the urgent need for public health strategies addressing both environmental and psychosocial issues, while also recognizing the essential contributions of community health workers.

Earlier this year, Jain's work also received the Developing Asia Journalism Award from the Asian Development Bank Institute.

Read: As climate change takes toll on maternal mental health, ASHA workers are tackling the challenge