Recognizing the intrinsic link between mental health and overall well-being, NITI Aayog recently conducted a workshop at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru. The primary focus of the workshop was to formulate policies addressing mental healthcare, with an emphasis on understanding the perspectives of states and stakeholders regarding existing gaps and challenges under the District Mental Health Program (DMHP). The goal was to leverage best practices identified during the workshop for replication in other states and Union Territories.
The District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) component of the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) has received approval for implementation in 738 districts. Support for these districts is extended through the National Health Mission, fostering collaboration between states and Union Territories.
The workshop dedicated attention to addressing challenges, sharing ongoing initiatives in states and Union Territories, and charting a course for the development of a comprehensive mental healthcare ecosystem in India. NITI Aayog, known for its commitment to raising awareness and tackling mental health issues across all age groups, engaged in discussions aimed at conceptualizing a new national mental healthcare program.
The workshop also focused on adopting an integrative approach that converges aspects of traditional medicine and enhancing the mental healthcare workforce by optimizing post-graduate seats in psychiatry, psychiatric social work, and clinical psychology.
Highlighting the government's commitment to mental health, the “National Tele Mental Health Programme” was launched in 2022 to enhance access to quality mental health counseling and care services nationwide. As of December 4, 2023, 46 Tele MANAS Cells have been established in 34 States/Union Territories, providing mental health services and handling over 500,000 calls on the helpline (1-800 891 4416).
Moreover, the government is taking steps to strengthen mental healthcare services at the primary healthcare level. Over 1.6 lakh Sub Health Centres (SHCs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Urban Primary Health Centres (UPHCs), and Urban Health and Wellness Centres (UHWCs) have been upgraded to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.
Mental health services have been included in the package of services offered under Comprehensive Primary Health Care at these Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. Operational guidelines for mental, neurological, and substance use disorders (MNS) at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have also been released under the ambit of Ayushman Bharat.
– By Rupa Kumari
