Mental health is a critical issue that people often hesitate to openly discuss. Recognizing its significance, the government initiated the “National Tele-Mental Health Program,” aiming to enhance mental health consultation and care services across the country. Since its launch on October 10, 2022, until December 4, 2023, 46 tele-mental health cells have been established in 34 states/union territories, providing mental health services. Over five lakh individuals have sought assistance through helplines, reflecting a growing awareness and acceptance of mental health challenges. The government has also upgraded over 1.6 lakh healthcare professionals to include mental health services in Ayushman Bharat Health Centers.
The Reach of Mental Health Services:
According to Prof. SP Singh Baghel, the Minister of Health and Family Welfare, the government, through digital academies in three central institutions since 2018, has been providing online training programs to healthcare professionals in various categories. These programs focus on general health care, medical treatment, and para-medical professions, aiming to expand mental health services to underserved areas. National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences in Bengaluru, Gopinath Bordoloi Regional Institute of Mental Health in Tezpur, Assam, and Central Institute of Psychiatry in Ranchi are key institutions supporting mental health initiatives.
Community-Level Initiatives:
Under the National Health Mission, the authorities have approved the implementation of the District Mental Health Program (DMHP) in 738 districts. This initiative, supported by the National Health Mission, aids states/union territories in establishing community health centers (CHCs) and primary health centers (PHCs) to provide external patient services, assessment, counseling, social interventions, continuous care, and assistance to individuals with severe mental disorders. It also includes outreach services, medicines, and ambulance services at CHC and PHC levels.
Positive Steps Towards Mental Health:
At the community level, the program provides external patient services, assessments, counseling, social interventions, continuous care, and assistance to individuals with severe mental disorders. It also includes outreach services, medicines, and ambulance services at CHC and PHC levels. Additionally, there is a provision for a 10-bed inpatient facility at the district level for serious cases.
Promoting Mental Health Education:
To further enhance the services, the government has taken steps to educate healthcare professionals in remote areas. The National Tele-Mental Health Program encourages the use of technology, ensuring that even those in remote regions have access to mental health resources. The digital academies offer online training courses, making it easier for healthcare professionals to acquire the necessary skills.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, understanding the mental health importance and prioritizing it, is crucial for the overall well-being of individuals and society. The government’s initiatives, such as the National Tele-Mental Health Program and the District Mental Health Program, reflect a positive step towards addressing mental health challenges.
By incorporating mental health services into mainstream healthcare, the aim is to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone. It is essential to continue breaking the stigma associated with mental health, encouraging open conversations, and fostering a society where mental health importance is understood and is a priority for all.
