Jipmer Launches ‘Tele-MANAS’ Mental Health Helpline

  • 14 Oct 2024

In News:

  • Jipmer (Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research) has launched the "Tele-MANAS" (Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States) helpline, a toll-free service (14416) aimed at providing mental health support.
  • This initiative is part of the National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP), launched by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Purpose and Need:

  • With an estimated 1 in 10 people in India suffering from mental illness, and about 1% experiencing severe conditions, the service addresses significant gaps in mental health access, particularly in rural and remote areas.
  • The helpline aims to provide immediate support for issues such as anxiety, depression, and emotional distress.

Training and Operations:

  • Jipmer will train qualified counsellors who will subsequently train additional counsellors to expand the reach of the service.
  • Counselors will be available 24/7, including holidays, to ensure continuous support.

Support Structure:

  • Trained counselors will serve as the first point of contact for individuals seeking help, providing responses, suggestions, and necessary referrals to advanced mental health facilities.
  • Jipmer will supervise the program, ensuring regular retraining and maintaining service quality.

Integration with National Programs:

  • The initiative is coordinated by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), which acts as the National Apex Centre for the NTMHP.
  • It includes a comprehensive information library on mental health and guidance for managing early signs of stress and emotional challenges.

Impact on Mental Health Services:

  • The program aims to enhance the overall quality of mental health services across states and union territories in India, making them more accessible to a larger population.
  • Emphasizes the importance of mental health as a public health priority.