Mental health is as important as physical health. This statement has become more evident after we witnessed a massive pandemic and most of us faced various social and financial crises staying at home during lockdowns. However, the Union Health Ministry has launched a 24×7 tele-mental health service called Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across all the States on the occasion of World Mental Health Day on 10th October 2022.  The service will start with 20 states and UTs and will subsequently be expanded to the entire country. Tele-MANAS aims to increase access to mental healthcare across the country, including the hard-to-reach areas. The country-wide network will provide counselling, consultation with a specialist, and e-prescriptions. The service can be accessed by calling the helpline number 14416 and 1-800-91-4416. Callers will first reach an IVRS, which means an automated voice, and then be transferred to a trained counsellor in their areas. 

If needed, they will be connected online to mental health specialists such as clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, etc. In case the caller needs in-person services, they will be referred to the closest health and wellness centre. Launching the project the Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya shared a note on his twitter highlighting the importance of mental health. The union minister in his tweet also mentioned that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed towards enhancing mental health awareness. What do you think about this initiative to promote mental health? Do mention your thoughts in the comment

Tags

• Mental Health
• Tele Manas
• Central Government
• Hea

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