Focus on Children, Working Professionals, and Senior Citizens; Helpline, OPD Care, and Referrals to Be Rolled Out
New Delhi: In a major step toward strengthening mental healthcare, the Delhi government is launching a dedicated four-tier mental health programme focused on children, working professionals, and the elderly. The initiative, operating under the AYUSH system, will provide services ranging from anonymous teleconsultations to specialised psychiatric referrals.
Health Minister Pankaj Singh, while announcing the initiative, said the programme aims to promote holistic well-being amid growing stress and anxiety across all age groups. The initiative will offer a combination of traditional Indian medical systems—Ayurveda, Unani, Homoeopathy—with modern mental health support.
“This is the first focused mental health programme under AYUSH, and it will ensure help at every level — from a simple phone call to hospital-level care,” Singh said, noting the service will be accessible, anonymous, and stigma-free.
Four-Tier Mental Health Model
- Teleconsultation Helpline:
Individuals can call a dedicated number to speak with a mental health expert anonymously. - Mental Health Counselling:
If required, teleconsultation will be followed up with in-depth counselling by professionals. - OPD Care at AYUSH Hospitals:
Counsellors may refer individuals to outpatient services at one of four AYUSH teaching hospitals in Delhi — Karol Bagh, Defence Colony, Najafgarh, and Nanak Pura. - Referral to Specialised Psychiatric Care:
For severe cases, patients will be referred to allopathic or psychiatric centres, following clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Programme Targets Key Vulnerable Groups
- Children and Adolescents:
Rising mental health issues like aggression and anxiety in school-age children have made early intervention a priority. - Working Professionals & Women:
Job stress, poor work-life balance, and dual responsibilities faced by working women will be addressed. - Senior Citizens:
Elderly individuals dealing with isolation, loneliness, and age-related psychological issues will receive focused care.
The minister highlighted that the programme is especially crucial at a time when mental health remains under-discussed due to fear and social stigma. By ensuring anonymity and community-based access points, the initiative aims to break the silence around mental distress.
The AYUSH department, which incorporates Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy, will lead the programme as part of Delhi’s broader healthcare framework.
