Sikkim’s Minister for Health and Family Welfare, GT Dhungel, has made a strong appeal for greater awareness of mental health issues, urging individuals struggling with emotional distress to seek timely help. He emphasized the role of Tele-MANAS, a 24/7 mental health helpline, in providing professional guidance and support to those dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, and thoughts of self-harm.
His statement comes at a time when mental health challenges are on the rise across India, with increasing reports of suicide, stress-related disorders, and substance abuse. By promoting Tele-MANAS, the Sikkim government is taking a proactive step in ensuring mental health support is easily accessible and free of stigma.
GT Dhungel’s Appeal for Mental Health Awareness
During his public message, Minister GT Dhungel called for immediate attention to the growing mental health crisis.
“Are you feeling emotionally distressed, experiencing exam-related stress, facing relationship issues, struggling with alcohol or drug use, or having thoughts of self-harm or suicide? If you’re dealing with stress, depression, anxiety, or any mental health concerns, Tele-MANAS offers 24/7 free and confidential mental health support,” he said.
His appeal highlights the increasing need for psychological intervention and the importance of providing immediate assistance to those at risk. By openly discussing mental health, he aims to break the stigma surrounding the topic and encourage more people to seek help.
What is Tele-MANAS?
Tele-MANAS, short for Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States, is a nationwide mental health helpline launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. This initiative was developed to provide free, round-the-clock mental health services to anyone in need.
Key Features of Tele-MANAS:
- 24/7 confidential mental health support
- Free telephonic counseling and guidance
- Immediate psychological first aid
- Referral services for severe mental health conditions
- Access to trained psychologists and psychiatrists
Tele-MANAS ensures that individuals facing emotional distress can receive professional help without any financial burden or social stigma.
Rising Mental Health Concerns in Sikkim
Mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, have been growing concerns in Sikkim. Several factors contribute to this, including:
- Academic pressure: Students facing exam stress and performance anxiety often struggle with depression.
- Unemployment and financial stress: Job insecurity can lead to chronic stress and mental distress.
- Social stigma: Many individuals hesitate to seek help due to the fear of judgment.
- Substance abuse: Alcohol and drug use have been linked to rising mental health disorders in the state.
Health experts warn that untreated mental health issues can lead to severe consequences, including self-harm and suicide. This makes services like Tele-MANAS vital for providing immediate intervention.
The Role of Tele-MANAS in Suicide Prevention
Suicide prevention is one of the key objectives of Tele-MANAS. The helpline ensures that individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts receive immediate counseling and support.
How Tele-MANAS Helps in Crisis Situations?
- Provides immediate emotional support for those experiencing suicidal ideation.
- Connects individuals with professional psychologists who can guide them through their struggles.
- Encourages long-term therapy and medical treatment for those with chronic mental health conditions.
- Offers assistance to families and caregivers on how to support loved ones dealing with mental health issues.
According to global mental health studies, early intervention and timely counseling can significantly reduce the risk of suicide. Tele-MANAS ensures that help is always available to those in crisis.
Government’s Commitment to Mental Health Support
The Sikkim government has been actively working on improving mental health services through:
- Public awareness campaigns to educate people about mental health disorders.
- School and college mental health programs to support students.
- Collaboration with mental health professionals to strengthen psychological care.
- Encouraging counseling and therapy as part of primary healthcare services.
By promoting Tele-MANAS, the government is reinforcing its commitment to mental health and ensuring that people know they are not alone.
How to Access Tele-MANAS?
Anyone in need of mental health support can contact Tele-MANAS through the following numbers:
- 14416
- 1-800-891-4416
The helpline is available 24/7 and is free of cost.
The service is managed by trained professionals, including psychologists and psychiatrists, who provide guidance, crisis intervention, and referrals for further treatment when necessary.
Breaking the Stigma: Encouraging Open Conversations on Mental Health
One of the biggest challenges in mental health care is the stigma associated with seeking help. Many individuals fear being judged or misunderstood, which prevents them from reaching out.
Minister GT Dhungel’s efforts to promote Tele-MANAS send a strong message that mental health matters and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Encouraging open discussions on mental health can help:
- Normalize therapy and counseling.
- Reduce fear and misconceptions surrounding mental illness.
- Encourage early intervention to prevent severe mental health crises.
- Support individuals in finding healthy ways to cope with stress and emotional distress.
Sikkim’s Health Minister GT Dhungel’s emphasis on mental health awareness and suicide prevention through Tele-MANAS is a crucial step toward addressing psychological distress. With increasing cases of stress, anxiety, depression, and self-harm, accessible and free mental health support is more important than ever.
By normalizing conversations around mental health and providing 24/7 helpline services, the Sikkim government is fostering a supportive and stigma-free environment where people can seek help without hesitation. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, reach out to Tele-MANAS at 14416 or 1-800-891-4416—because help is always available.
