The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has taken a significant step towards enhancing mental health support for students by urging all affiliated schools to actively promote the Tele-MANAS helpline. This initiative provides round-the-clock, free, and confidential mental health assistance in 20 languages, aiming to address the growing need for accessible mental health resources among students.

Tele-MANAS: A Lifeline for Students

The Tele-MANAS helpline is designed to offer immediate support to students facing mental health challenges. Available 24/7, it ensures that help is just a phone call away, providing services in multiple languages to cater to India’s diverse student population. This initiative underscores the importance of mental well-being in educational settings and aims to create a supportive environment for students.

CBSE’s Directives for Schools

In a recent directive, CBSE has mandated that all affiliated schools prominently display the Tele-MANAS helpline numbers. Schools are encouraged to integrate this information into daily assemblies and newsletters, ensuring that students are aware of the available resources. By doing so, CBSE hopes to normalize conversations around mental health and encourage students to seek help when needed.

Expanding Access Through Technology

To further enhance accessibility, a mobile app and video consultation services have been introduced as part of the Tele-MANAS initiative. These technological advancements allow students to connect with mental health professionals from the comfort of their homes, breaking down barriers that may prevent them from seeking help in person.

Project MATE: Training for School Counsellors

In conjunction with the Tele-MANAS initiative, CBSE has partnered with AIIMS Delhi to launch Project MATE. This five-day training program is designed for school counsellors and focuses on adolescent well-being, resilience building, and peer support strategies. By equipping counsellors with these skills, CBSE aims to foster a more supportive school environment that prioritizes student mental health.

A Broader Mental Health Framework

These initiatives are part of a larger framework aimed at addressing mental health issues among adolescents. By promoting resources like Tele-MANAS and investing in counsellor training through Project MATE, CBSE is taking proactive steps to ensure that mental health support is integrated into the educational system. This comprehensive approach highlights the growing recognition of mental health as a critical component of student success.