Celebrating Two Years of Tele MANAS: India’s Mental Health Support Program
World Mental Health Day Celebration
On October 10, the Union Health Ministry celebrated the second anniversary of the National Tele Mental Health Programme, known as Tele MANAS, on World Mental Health Day. This year’s theme is “It is time to prioritize Mental Health at Workplace.”
Launch of Tele MANAS App and Video Call Facility
Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), launched the Tele MANAS app and video call facility. The event was attended by Dr. Roderico H. Ofrin, WHO Representative to India, and other senior officials. The app offers mental health support, self-care tips, and mindfulness practices, available 24/7 across India.
Video Consultations and Initial Launch
The new video consultation feature will initially be available in Karnataka, Jammu & Kashmir, and Tamil Nadu, with plans to expand nationwide. This upgrade allows mental health professionals to conduct brief physical or mental state examinations.
Importance of Mental Health at Work
Aradhana Patnaik emphasized the importance of mental health for productivity and well-being. She highlighted the need for a supportive work environment and work-life balance. Tele MANAS has handled over 1.45 million calls since its inception.
WHO’s Support and Assessment
Dr. Roderico H. Ofrin praised the success of Tele MANAS and stressed the role of employers in fostering a healthy work environment. A WHO assessment report recognized Tele MANAS as a successful model for mental health support.
New Resources Released
The event also saw the release of a report on Tele MANAS and a self-care module for employees, “Taking Charge of Your Mental Health – Because It Matters,” which offers strategies for maintaining mental well-being.
Doubts Revealed
Tele MANAS -: Tele MANAS is a program by the Indian government to provide mental health support through phone and online services. It helps people talk to mental health professionals without visiting them in person.
Union Health Ministry -: The Union Health Ministry is a part of the Indian government responsible for health policies and programs. They work to improve the health and well-being of people in India.
World Mental Health Day -: World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10th every year. It aims to raise awareness about mental health issues and promote mental well-being worldwide.
Aradhana Patnaik -: Aradhana Patnaik is an official who works with the Indian government. She was involved in launching the new features of the Tele MANAS program.
WHO -: WHO stands for the World Health Organization. It is a global organization that works to improve health and fight diseases around the world.
Dr. Roderico H. Ofrin -: Dr. Roderico H. Ofrin is a representative from the World Health Organization. He praised the success of the Tele MANAS program in India.
Self-care module -: A self-care module is a set of guidelines or activities designed to help people take care of their mental health. It includes strategies to improve well-being and reduce stress.
