Tele-MANAS (India mental health helpline)

If you are in danger right now

If you are thinking about suicide or self-harm, or you are not safe, call 14416 now, or emergency services on 112. Sefism is not a medical or crisis service.

What it is

Tele-MANAS (Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States) is India's national tele-mental health programme, launched in October 2022. It is run by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, with NIMHANS in Bengaluru as the technical hub and dozens of state cells. Calls are free and the service runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

How to reach it

• Phone: 14416 or 1-800-891-4416 (toll-free), 24/7
• Languages: you can choose your language; government reports say around 20 languages are available, depending on your state.

Check the site before you call, numbers change.

What to expect

A trained counsellor listens first and helps with what is happening now. If you need more, they can connect you with a mental health specialist by phone or video, or refer you to services near you. People call about exam and job stress, sleep, low mood, anxiety, relationships, substance use and thoughts of suicide.

Who it suits

Students and early-career people anywhere in India, including those living away from home for the first time, and anyone worried about a friend or family member. You do not need a referral or an account.

How to use it well

• Save 14416 in your phone and a friend's phone today.
• Pick the language you feel most at ease in; it is easier to explain feelings in your first language.
• Calling for someone else is fine. Ask them first if you can, and stay with them.
• Ask about follow-up if you need ongoing support.

Pair it with on Sefism

• Stage 1 of the Looking after your mental health roadmap covers crisis help, warning signs and supporting a friend.
• Find A Helpline lists other verified services in India and elsewhere.
• Building your support system helps you build people to lean on before things get hard.
• For anything that is not urgent, you can also ask Tauseef a question.

Best for: free, round-the-clock mental health support anywhere in India, in your own language.