On World Mental Health Day, India’s Tele-Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States (Tele-MANAS) program achieved a significant milestone by providing counseling services to over 350,000 people. The program, launched last year, has been instrumental in offering mental health support to individuals across the country. Speaking about this accomplishment, Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, emphasized the importance of ensuring mental health care accessibility and benefits for all citizens.
The National Mental Health Survey conducted in 2015-16 revealed that mental health issues affect approximately 10% of India’s population, highlighting the significance of addressing mental health concerns. Tele-MANAS has played a vital role in reaching out to those in need of counseling and support.
Mandaviya stated that the Tele-MANAS program currently operates through 44 Tele-Manas Cells, offering counseling to around 2,000 individuals daily, with over 1,000 calls received on the helpline each day. This initiative has been pivotal in expanding access to mental health services and reducing the stigma associated with seeking help for mental health issues.
In addition to Tele-MANAS, India has made efforts to enhance mental health care at various levels. At the tertiary level, the country has 47 government mental health hospitals, including three central mental health institutions. Many central and state government hospitals have established psychiatry departments, and similar departments have been incorporated into newly established All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) institutions.
To improve mental health care coverage and accessibility, district-level activities have been supported under the National Mental Health Program, spanning 743 districts across all 36 states and union territories. The government has also taken steps to address mental health concerns in children and women through initiatives like the National Child Health Programme, National Adolescent Health Program, and Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) programs.
Furthermore, Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres have played a crucial role in integrating mental health services with primary health services, prioritizing the treatment of mental health disorders, neurological conditions, and substance use disorders.
The Tele-MANAS program’s success underscores India’s commitment to providing mental health support to its citizens and addressing the mental health challenges faced by a significant portion of the population. By expanding access to counseling and services, India aims to promote mental well-being and reduce the burden of mental health issues on individuals and communities.
