Kundapura: The Tele-MANAS initiative, launched by the central government during the COVID-19 period, has been witnessing a steady increase in distress calls. In just one and a half years since its implementation, over 19 lakh calls have been received.

The initiative aims to provide mental health support over the phone to those suffering from psychological distress and, if needed, offer free hospital treatment. Karnataka has two mentoring units located in Bengaluru’s NIMHANS and Dharwad’s DIMHANS, which are part of the 23 mentoring units and 53 Tele-MANAS centres across India. Trained experts at NIMHANS and DIMHANS handle the state’s calls.

So far, the helpline has received 19,08,123 calls nationwide. India has 440 mental health shelters with a total capacity to accommodate 27,413 individuals, including 12,914 men and 14,499 women. Currently, 21,519 people, comprising 10,006 men and 11,513 women, are undergoing treatment at homes, rehabilitation centres, and semi-residential centres. Bengaluru has a full-fledged rehabilitation centre with a capacity of 25 beds, where individuals can be admitted for treatment ranging from 15 to 90 days, depending on necessity.

Helpline support available

Mental health challenges can affect anyone. Suicide is not a solution—sharing one’s concerns with others or seeking help through a free helpline can provide relief. Those experiencing distress due to exam stress, family issues, substance abuse, relationship problems, memory issues, financial burdens, suicidal thoughts, or any other mental health issues can reach out for support.

All caller details remain confidential, and calls are not recorded. Additionally, district-level community health centres offer in-person counselling. The toll-free numbers for assistance are 14416 or 1800-89-14416.

Counsellors in schools?

Several private schools have already appointed counsellors to address children’s mental health concerns, including depression and stress. The central government introduced the Mental Healthcare Act in 2017, followed by Karnataka’s own legislation in 2021.

What is Tele-MANAS?

Launched on October 10, 2022, on World Mental Health Day, Tele-MANAS (Tele-Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States) is a nationwide initiative offering telephonic counselling and expert advice. Initially funded entirely by the central government, it was later integrated into the National Health Mission after three years. Currently, the state government, private organisations, NGOs, and government health institutions are jointly running this technology-based mental health support system. With this initiative, India is among the few countries globally offering telephonic mental health support.

“Through Tele-MANAS, individuals can receive expert advice and, if required, be admitted to district hospitals for mental health treatment. Many have shown significant improvement.” – Catherine Jennifer, Udupi District Nodal Officer

“Several individuals have been admitted and successfully treated at our centre. At present, 25 individuals referred through Tele-MANAS are undergoing treatment.” – Ravi, Manasa Rehabilitation Centre, Bengaluru

Translated version of Kannada article by Laxmi Machina