Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: TH
Context: India’s Tele-MANAS, a round-the-clock mental health helpline launched on World Mental Health Day in 2022, has received over 3,40,000 calls from 32 states and union territories.
- The helpline was initiated in response to the increased mental health challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, providing essential mental health first-aid support.
Tele-MANAS is a mental health helpline in India. It was launched in October 2022 by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. The program’s objectives are:
- To enable people to seek support for their mental health issues while maintaining anonymity
- To facilitate timely referral for specialist care and follow-up
- To enhance mental healthcare capacity and networking
Tele-MANAS offers 24/7 mental health care services in every Indian state, in regional languages. The service is accessible through the toll-free numbers 14416 or 1-800-891-4416
