World Mental Health Day: Tele MANAS helpline 14416 crosses 47.75 lakh calls in four years
On World Mental Health Day, the Health Ministry says its free Tele MANAS helpline (14416) has received over 47.75 lakh calls since 2022, most from people aged 18 to 45.
India is observing World Mental Health Day today, 10 October, with the Union Health Ministry highlighting its free Tele MANAS helpline, which has received more than 47.75 lakh calls since it began four years ago.
This year’s global theme is “Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change”, according to Asianet Newsable and Medical Dialogues.
Tele MANAS in numbers
Tele MANAS (Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States) was launched on 10 October 2022. It offers free, confidential counselling round the clock on the toll-free number 14416. According to the ministry figures reported by both outlets:
- 47,75,644 calls received so far
- 53 Tele MANAS cells operating across all 36 states and Union Territories
- Of 13,35,275 callers with recorded details, 54.18% were men and 43.78% women
- 73.2% of callers were aged 18 to 45
Common concerns raised by callers include emotional distress, stress over exams, work or relationships, anxiety and sleep problems. Callers can be referred to specialists and public health services when needed.
Care beyond the helpline
- District Mental Health Programme: sanctioned in 767 districts, offering outpatient care, counselling, medicines, follow-up and referrals
- Ayushman Arogya Mandirs: more than 1.83 lakh centres include mental health screening and support in their primary care package
- MANN Jaagriti: a community awareness drive in schools, colleges, workplaces and health centres to reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help early
The ministry said every conversation matters and every voice deserves to be heard, Medical Dialogues reported, and urged anyone in distress to call 14416.
If you need to talk
The ministry’s MANN Jaagriti campaign promotes open conversations about mental health and encourages people to seek help early. If you or someone you know is struggling, Tele MANAS is free and available 24 hours a day on 14416.
Sources: Asianet Newsable, Medical Dialogues.
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