Establishing a new milestone in the field of mental health on the occasion of World Mental Health Day, Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States (Tele-MANAS) initiative of the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare was launched virtually by Sh. Thawar Chand Gehlot, Hon’ble Governor of Karnataka at National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS).
The Government of India announced NTMHP (National Tele Mental Health Programme) in the Union Budget 2022-2023 as a response to the mental health crisis created by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tele-MANAS aims to provide free tele-mental health services all over the country round the clock, particularly catering to people in remote or under-served areas. The program includes a network of 23 tele-mental health centers of excellence, with NIMHANS being the nodal center and the International Institute of Information Technology-Bangalore (IIITB) and the National Health Systems Resource Centre (NHRSC) providing technical support. The Union Government aims to open at least one Tele-MANAS Cell in each State/UT.
Acknowledging the mental health crisis in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and an urgent need to establish a digital mental health network that will withstand the challenges amplified by the pandemic, the Government of India announced NTMHP in the Union Budget 2022-23.
A toll-free, 24/7 helpline number (14416) has been set up across the country allowing callers to select the language of choice for availing services. Service is also accessible at 1-800-91-4416. The calls would be routed to Tele-MANAS cells in the respective state and union territory.
Tele-MANAS will be organized in a two-tier system:
Tier 1 comprises state Tele-MANAS cells which include trained counselors and mental health specialists.
Tier 2 will comprise specialists at District Mental Health Programme (DMHP)/Medical College resources for physical consultation and/or e-Sanjeevani for audio-visual consultation. Presently there are 5 regional coordination centers along with 51 State/UT Tele MANAS cells.
The initial rollout providing basic support and counseling through a centralized Interactive Voice Response system (IVRS) is being customized for use across all States and UTs.
This will not only help in providing immediate mental healthcare services but also facilitate a continuum of care. Specialized care is being envisioned through the program by linking Tele-MANAS with other services like National teleconsultation service, e-Sanjeevani, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, mental health professionals, Ayushman Bharat health and wellness centers, and emergency psychiatric facilities.
Eventually, this will include the entire spectrum of mental wellness and illness, and integrate all systems that provide mental health care.
Reference
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1866498