Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Jan 15 : The groundbreaking Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States (Tele-MANAS) cell, operational at the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS) Srinagar, has emerged as a lifeline for individuals grappling with stress, drug addiction and anxiety-related issues in Jammu and Kashmir.
Tele-MANAS, the first-of-its-kind mental health helpline, completed two years and has received an overwhelming response, with approximately 75,000 calls being made, according to details obtained by the news agency.
Launched on November 4, 2022, this unique three-tier system incorporates mental health counsellors, clinical psychologists, and psychiatrists, ensuring a comprehensive support network for those in need.
An official of IMNHAS informed KNO that the helpline has handled over 75,000 calls, addressing concerns ranging from stress and drug addiction to suicidal tendencies and anxiety.
He said approximately 90 per cent of calls were routine inquiries, while around 10 per cent involved crisis interventions for individuals with self-harming ideas. “On average, the helpline receives 130 calls daily, with the highest daily call volume reaching over 300 calls. The average call duration is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending upon the nature of the issue” he said.
“Almost every day around 2-3 self-harming calls are being received and multiple suicide cases were prevented by providing crisis management,” he added.
Highlighting the significance of these numbers, the official said there is a positive reception of Tele MANAS by the public. He said the initiative aims to provide cost-effective and comprehensive services to an underserved population in the region, thereby strengthening mental health—a historically overlooked area in Jammu and Kashmir.
The toll-free helpline number for Tele MANAS Cell J&K is 14416/1-800-891-4416 which operates 24×7, offering mental health services and drug de-addiction services to the general public.
The official said the initiative is particularly beneficial for those hesitant to seek treatment due to the social stigma associated with mental health issues. “Such facilities aim to bridge the gap for those avoiding treatment due to stigma or other barriers,” he said.
He said the number of patients seeking mental health treatment is just the “tip of the iceberg” and the initiative aims to reach a broader population. “During winter, patients from remote and far-flung areas often cannot visit healthcare facilities due to blocked roads. This service offers them the opportunity to access treatment from their homes,” he added.
In light of previous studies conducted by the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS), it is evident that Kashmir faces a significant mental health challenge. A study in 2016 revealed that 11.3 per cent of the adult population in the valley suffers from mental illness. Another study in 2015 by Medecins Sans Frontieres and IMHANS indicated that nearly one in five individuals in Kashmir exhibits symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
