Tele-MANAS is the Government of India's national tele-mental health programme.
Call 14416 or 1-800-891-4416 from anywhere in India, free of charge.
Key concepts
- Available 24 hours, all days
- Trained counsellors with escalation to specialists
- Support in multiple regional languages
Symptoms and signs
- Feeling overwhelmed, anxious or low
- Worry about a family member's mental health
- Thoughts of self-harm
Causes
- Shortage of mental health professionals in many areas
- Need for immediate, anonymous support
- Distance and cost barriers
Risk factors
- Waiting too long before seeking help
- Using helplines instead of emergency services when life is at immediate risk
- Not following up with ongoing care
Evidence-based management
- Call 14416, choose your language, describe your concern
- Follow the counsellor's advice on next steps
- For immediate danger, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department
- Arrange ongoing treatment with a psychiatrist
When to seek professional help
- Thoughts of suicide or self-harm — call Tele-MANAS 14416 or 112 now
- You can book an online consultation for a confidential assessment
- Repeated crises — a regular treatment plan is needed
Frequently asked questions
Is Tele-MANAS confidential?
Yes, calls are handled confidentially by trained staff.
Can Tele-MANAS prescribe medicines?
It mainly offers counselling and referral; ongoing treatment is through a psychiatrist.
Medical references
Guidelines and official sources used for this article.
- Tele-MANAS — National Tele Mental Health Programme. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
- The Mental Healthcare Act, 2017. Government of India.
- Author
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
- Medical reviewer
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MD Psychiatry
- Last reviewed
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for personal medical advice.
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