An individual's mental health and wellbeing is as important as his/her physical health. Mental illnesses amongst a majority of our population has increased over the years, leading to the development of multiple organisations and programs, as subsequent movements to provide information and support.
However, in light of the current situation caused due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the social and economic impacts have been catastrophic. Rising unemployment, gender based violence, homelessness, poverty, anxiety and stress, starvation, alcoholism and loan defaults are just a few of the repercussions of this crisis. The greater impact of all these is the fertile breeding ground formed for chronic stress, depression, substance abuse and self harm.
During the nationwide lockdown, our employees at ABND experienced multiple situations in and around them, with people suffering from various mood disorders. With all of us locked inside our homes, we decided to do what we do best and develop a communication plan that helps people identify their symptoms and encourages them to seek help.
I Am Fine highlights the various symptoms that one may experience while suffering from anxiety or depression and encourages them to reach out to the various organisations offering support.
After conducting an in-depth research on the numerous programs and helplines available online for virtual support, we’ve compiled a list of organisations and the necessary information that will be required to take the first step. It is imperative that we break the stigma of society and start looking at mental health in a new light.
Anxiety or Depression
is not a weakness
We have compiled a list of programs and experts that are available for help
Government of Maharastra: SAMVAAD
In Marathi/Hindi/English
With a view to provide counselling and care for those suffering mental health problems or emotional distress due to the prolonged lockdown and deepening economic hardships, the state government's initiative is offering support to both urban and non-urban settlements.
24x7 Helpline: 18001024040
BMC-Mpower 1on1
Launched by Mpower and BMC
24x7 Helpline: 1800-120-820050
Counsellors on Call
Project Mumbai in association with Prafulta Thirty plus trained therapists attending to calls for mental health and support 8 am to 8 pm, seven days a week.
Find a list of all the therapists and their contact details at:
https://projectmumbai.org/mental-health-helplines-two-special-lines/
National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS)
The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences, India’s premier medical institution located in Bengaluru, India is offering free online counselling for all those seeking support.
Helpline: 08046110007
AASRA Suicide Prevention and Counselling
Aasra is a crisis intervention centre for the lonely, distressed, and suicidal. It aims to help, prevent, and manage mental illness by providing voluntary, professional, and essentially confidential care and support to the depressed and the suicidal. The 24x7 helpline can be contacted for dealing with emotional crisis, mental illness issues, feelings of helplessness. People who are grieving due to loss of suicide of close ones can also contact the helpline.
24x7 Helpline: +91-9820466726
iCALL
iCall is a service from TISS, run by trained mental health professionals. iCall provides emotional support, information and referral services to individuals in psycho-social distress, across the life span and across different gender and sexual identities.
24x7 Helpline: 022-25521111
Email ID: icall@tiss.edu
Vandrevala Foundation
The Vandrevala Foundation has trained counsellors professionally helping you out in times of distress or suicidal thoughts.
Toll free number: (186) 02662345
24x7 Helpline: 1800-120-820050
Fortis Exam Helpline
The Fortis National Helpline number is for students or parents with queries related to stress, mental wellbeing,exam tips or even to consult a team of experts and behavioural psychologists.
Helpline: +918376804102
Samaritans
Samaritans Mumbai is the first branch of The Samaritans, UK, established outside of England. They have been actively working in the field of mental health and striving to support those in need since 1968. They are a fully qualified member of Befriender India, under the umbrella of Brefrienders Worldwide.
3pm to 9 pm – 7 days: 84229 84528/84229 84529 / 84229 84530
Email ID: talk2samaritans@gmail.com
Did you know?
