In a bid to tackle the rising cases of stress and anxiety across age groups, a comprehensive mental health programme under the AYUSH intervention will help people of all ages, Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Singh said. He said that the initiative — aimed at promoting holistic well-being — will focus on three key population groups: children, the working class and senior citizens.
According to the PTI report, the service will be anonymous, accessible and rooted in traditional systems of medicine including Ayurveda, Homoeopathy and Unani, he said, adding that this will be the first focused mental health initiative under Ayush and it will support people at every stage — from a phone call to a consultation, and even hospital-level care if needed.
Many people hesitate to speak about mental stress. Through this platform, they can reach out anonymously and seek help without fear or stigma, the minister said.
The programme will operate through a four-level structure starting from telephonic consultations, moving to mental health counselling, followed by OPD services at Ayush hospitals and a final referral stage in case specialised psychiatric intervention is needed.
The programme is especially significant at a time when stress is increasingly being reported among school children, with some showing early signs of aggression and anxiety. Also, working professionals are burdened with high-pressure targets and a lack of work-life balance.
Women who juggle home and workplace responsibilities will also be covered within this group. The elderly, too, face isolation and other age-related mental health challenges.
Under the plan, people can call a dedicated helpline and book a time slot to speak with a counsellor. If the counsellor feels that in-person help is required, the case will be referred to OPDs at Ayush hospitals. There are currently four such teaching hospitals in Delhi — Karol Bagh, Defence Colony, Najafgarh and Nanak Pura.
If further care is necessary, the final level will involve referral to allopathic or psychiatric facilities based on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Functioning under the Delhi government’s health framework, the AYUSH systems comprise Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy.
Also Read:NIMHANS, Ashraya Hastha Trust join hands to implement rural mental health programme in two taluks
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.