Tele-MANAS Mental Health Helpline Surpasses 19.6 Lakh Calls Since 2022: Prataprao Jadhav
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Synopsis
The Tele-MANAS helpline, part of India's national mental health initiative, has managed over 19.6 lakh calls since its launch in 2022, according to Minister Prataprao Jadhav. This service aims to address rising mental health concerns across the country.
Key Takeaways
- Tele-MANAS helpline received over 19.6 lakh calls.
- 53 cells established across 36 states.
- 24x7 services available in 20 languages.
- 1.75 lakh healthcare centres upgraded.
- 42,488 professionals trained in mental health care.
New Delhi, March 25 (NationPress) The Tele MANAS toll-free helpline, initiated as a component of India's national tele-mental health initiative, has successfully managed over 19,67,000 calls since its inception in 2022, as reported by Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav in Parliament on Tuesday.
This toll-free helpline (14416) was inaugurated on October 10, 2022, coinciding with World Mental Health Day, in response to the escalating mental health challenges faced by the nation. Tele-MANAS is a mobile application that offers a thorough platform for addressing mental health concerns, encompassing a range of issues from general well-being to severe mental disorders.
In a written response in the Rajya Sabha, Jadhav revealed that 53 Tele MANAS cells have been established across 36 states, delivering round-the-clock mental health services in up to 20 languages.
As of March 19, “36 States/UTs have initiated tele-mental health services with 53 Tele MANAS Cells, successfully managing over 19,67,000 calls,” he explained, detailing the government's efforts to enhance mental health services.
Additionally, Jadhav highlighted that the government is working to fortify mental health services at the primary healthcare level.
“More than 1.75 lakh Sub Health Centres (SHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) have been upgraded to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. Services for mental, neurological, and substance use disorders (MNS) are now included in the offerings at these Arogya Mandirs,” emphasized the MoS.
India also boasts 47 government-operated mental hospitals, which include 3 Central Mental Health Institutions located in Bengaluru, Assam, and Ranchi. Mental health services are also available in all AIIMS facilities.
Importantly, the government is enhancing the availability of trained personnel to provide mental healthcare services in underserved regions. It offers online training programs for various categories of general healthcare and paramedical professionals through Digital Academies, established in 2018.
“The total number of professionals trained through Digital Academies stands at 42,488,” Jadhav stated.
