Posted on: September 8, 2020, 1:36 PM
Source: PIB Delhi
In a significant step towards addressing mental health issues, especially in the context of the rising cases during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has launched the 24/7 toll-free mental health rehabilitation helpline “Kiran” (1800-599-0019). This service, available in 13 languages, was inaugurated by the Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Thawar Chand Gehlot, through a webcast, accompanied by the release of posters, brochures, and a resource book for the helpline.
How the Helpline Works
The Kiran helpline is designed to provide support to individuals from any part of India via any telecom network, whether through a mobile or landline. Users can call the toll-free number 1800-599-0019, listen to a welcome message, and then select their preferred language by pressing the corresponding button. After choosing a language, callers are prompted to select their state/union territory to connect with a local helpline center. Mental health professionals assist callers in addressing their issues and may refer or connect them to external help such as clinical psychologists, rehabilitation psychologists, or psychiatrists.
Features of the Helpline
- Availability: Operates 24/7 throughout the week.
- Coordination: Managed in technical collaboration with BSNL.
- Institutions Involved: Includes 25 institutions, supported by 8 national institutes.
- Professional Support: Backed by 660 clinical/rehabilitation psychologists and 668 psychiatrists.
- Languages Offered: The helpline supports 13 languages: Hindi, Assamese, Tamil, Marathi, Odia, Telugu, Malayalam, Gujarati, Punjabi, Kannada, Bengali, Urdu, and English.
Purpose of the Helpline
Mental illness can affect an individual’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Seeking help is a positive step toward health, wellness, and happiness. The Kiran helpline provides services aimed at mental health rehabilitation, including:
- Preliminary assessment
- Psychological first aid
- Crisis management
- Mental wellness and promoting positive behavior
- Addressing psychological distress
The helpline is dedicated to helping individuals cope with various mental health challenges, such as stress, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, and pandemic-induced psychological issues. It acts as a lifeline for individuals, families, NGOs, parent associations, professional organizations, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or anyone in need of support across the country.
Objectives of the Helpline
- Initial Assessment: Identifying the nature and extent of the mental health issue.
- First Aid and Support: Providing immediate psychological support and counseling.
- Crisis Management: Assisting individuals in handling mental health emergencies.
- Promoting Mental Wellness: Encouraging positive mental health practices.
- Professional Referrals: Connecting individuals to mental health experts when necessary.
- Behavioral Support: Preventing disruptive behaviors and managing psychological crises effectively.
Targeted Issues
The helpline aims to address mental health problems, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Suicidal tendencies
- Depression
- Panic attacks
- Adjustment disorders
- PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
- Substance abuse
Coordination and Professional Support
The helpline is coordinated by the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities (NIEPMD), Chennai, and the National Institute of Mental Health Rehabilitation (NIMHR), Sehore. Professional assistance is provided by the Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists (IACP), Indian Psychiatrist Association (IPA), and Indian Psychiatric Social Workers Association (IPSWA).
A Positive Step for Mental Health in India
The Kiran helpline is a pioneering initiative aimed at improving mental health care accessibility and addressing the growing mental health challenges in India. By offering multilingual support and professional counseling, the helpline underscores the importance of mental well-being and encourages individuals to seek timely help for a healthier, happier life.