Tele MANAS: Your Digital Guardian for Mental Wellness

Introduction and Rationale

India accounts for about 18% of the world's population. Many people in India face mental health problems, and in 2019, mental disorders were a big reason for disability and even death. Evidence shows that suicide rates increased by 40% from 1990 to 2016, making it a major cause of death in some Indian states.

Recent studies found that 15% of adults in India have mental health issues, but most of them don't get the help they need. The government of India has some plans to improve mental health care, like the National Mental Health Policy in 2014, and the Mental Healthcare Act in 2017, which says everyone has a right to mental health care.

Despite these efforts, there is still a big need for mental health support, especially because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Going to a doctor for mental health can be hard, especially in faraway places with limited resources. So, the government started using telemedicine, like eSanjeevani, to help people get mental health care without traveling far.

To improve this telemedicine approach, the government introduced the National Tele Mental Health Programme, called Tele MANAS, in the Union Budget of 2022. This program aims to provide mental health counseling through digital platforms, linking with in-person consultations in districts where DMHP is already working. It focuses on providing mental health services through digital platforms and connecting with physical consultations when needed.

Organizational Framework

In the Union Budget 2022, GoI introduced the National Tele Mental Health Programme, known as Tele MANAS. MoHFW was given the responsibility to oversee its implementation. As part of this, MoHFW established a National Technical Advisory Group (NTAG) along with three technical advisory sub-committees focusing on Mental Health Service Delivery, Information Technology Architecture, and Health Systems. Their role is to guide and achieve the specific goals of Tele MANAS.

Service Delivery Framework

The system operates under a two-tier framework:

1. Tier-1: Comprising State Tele MANAS cells with dedicated counselors and mental health specialists, this tier is designed to address a broad range of concerns. These cells will be the primary point of contact for individuals and their families seeking mental health support.
2. Tier-2: Involving specialists located within District Mental Health Programme or Medical College resources, this tier offers more advanced interventions. Specialists can provide in-person consultations and leverage eSanjeevani for audio-visual consultations, ensuring a comprehensive approach to mental health care.

A total of 51 State/UT Tele MANAS cells will be established, categorized into two groups:

• Category 1: Larger cells for States/UTs with a population of ≥ 20 Lakh.
• Category 2: Smaller cells for states with a population of < 20 Lakh. This categorization aims to tailor the services based on the specific needs of diverse population sizes.

Integration with National Health Programs

Conclusion

In the pursuit of a mentally healthier India, Tele MANAS emerges as a beacon of innovation and inclusivity. With a two-tier system, cutting-edge technology, and a dedicated approach, the program not only aligns with the government's vision but also pioneers a digital transformation in mental health care. As Tele MANAS unfolds its services, it marks a significant leap towards accessible and quality mental health care for all, breaking down geographical barriers and fostering resilience in the face of contemporary challenges. India's journey towards holistic mental well-being has found a digital ally in Tele MANAS, promising a brighter, healthier future for all its citizens.

"Tele MANAS is a comprehensive mental health care service made available with one call away! Dial the toll free numbers 14416 / 1800-89-14416 to reach us!"

Source - Telemanas