The National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP), inaugurated by the Indian government on October 10, 2022, has transformed mental health care in India. In just two years, its program, Tele MANAS (Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States), has handled over 14.7 lakh calls and is transforming the country's access to unbiased mental health care.
Tele MANAS offers a 24/7 available toll-free helpline number - 14416 which encourages easy access to mental health support, including services like psychotherapy, counseling, psychiatric consultations, and referrals.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has acknowledged this program as a model for delivery of mental health treatment due to it's significant impact on marginalized communities, ensuring that mental health services are available even in remote areas.
Despite the Mental Healthcare Act of 2017 making mental health care a statutory right,15% of adults still require mental health help according to various studies and individuals still face barriers to proper counselling like the stigma associated with mental health problems and costly counselling sessions.
Tele MANAS was therefore created to fill this gap by offering services like phone-based counseling sessions to help combat issues like addiction, anxiety, depression, and more.
While Tier 1 of Tele MANAS's two-tiered approach involves immediate support from licensed counselors, Tier 2 offers more sophisticated therapy through specialists at District Mental Health Program facilities and medical colleges. The program also includes in-person support through public health organizations when needed.
On World Mental Health Day 2024, Tele MANAS expanded its reach even more by launching a mobile app and video consulting services. These traits provide greater access to mental health resources and allow for more comprehensive assessments. With achievements like the creation of 5 Regional Coordinating Centers, 22 Tele MANAS Cells, and collaboration with 23 mentoring institutes, Tele MANAS is improving mental health care as it nears its third year, ensuring that no one is left without the help they need, regardless of location or financial limitations.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Dr. Chhavi Garg/MSM)
