Updated: November 6, 2026 | News Nation Online
In an emergency, call 112. For free, 24×7 mental health support anywhere in India, call Tele-MANAS on 14416 or 1800-891-4416. The older KIRAN helpline (1800-599-0019) has been merged into Tele-MANAS, and calls to it are routed to your state’s Tele-MANAS cell.
Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet it remains one of the most neglected issues in India. The government and several NGOs run dedicated mental health helplines and emotional support services that offer free, confidential assistance.
National Mental Health Helpline: Tele-MANAS (14416)
Tele-MANAS is the national tele-mental health service of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, supervised by NIMHANS, Bengaluru. It is toll-free, works round the clock and lets callers choose their language. Calls go to trained counsellors in the caller’s state, who can arrange a consultation with a mental health professional or refer the caller to local services when needed.
Key Mental Health Helplines in India (2026)
| Helpline | Number | What it offers |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency (all services) | 112 | Police, ambulance and fire in an emergency |
| Tele-MANAS (Govt. of India) | 14416 / 1800-891-4416 | National 24×7 mental health support, many languages |
| KIRAN (now part of Tele-MANAS) | 1800-599-0019 | Routes to your state’s Tele-MANAS cell |
| AASRA (Mumbai) | +91-9820466726 | Suicide prevention and emotional support |
| iCall (TISS, Mumbai) | 9152987821 | Free tele-counselling for anxiety, relationships and trauma |
| Vandrevala Foundation | +91 9999 666 555 (call or WhatsApp) | Mental health and crisis support |
| Sumaitri (Delhi) | 011-23389090 | Emotional support for people in distress |
| Sneha Foundation (Chennai) | 044-2464 0050 | Suicide prevention helpline |
| Snehi (Delhi) | 9582208181 | Emotional distress support |
NGO helplines set their own hours, which can change. If one line does not answer, call Tele-MANAS on 14416, which is available 24×7.
How These Helplines Work
Most helplines are staffed by trained counsellors who offer emotional first aid and can refer callers to psychiatrists or local hospitals when necessary. Calls are free of cost and available in several regional languages.
When Should You Reach Out?
- If you are feeling hopeless, anxious or unable to cope with stress
- If you or someone you know is showing signs of depression or suicidal thoughts
- If you are facing relationship, academic or work-related stress
- If you want someone to simply listen without judgment
Digital Mental Health Support
- Tele-MANAS app: the national service also offers support through its official app.
- YourDOST: online counselling and self-care tools.
- MindPeers: online mental wellness platform.
The Importance of Talking
Mental health issues are not a weakness. Reaching out for help is the first step toward feeling better, whether for yourself or someone you care about. If you ever feel overwhelmed, help is one call away.
Related: Important helpline numbers in India | Women safety helplines and apps
Sources: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (Tele-MANAS), NIMHANS, and the listed NGO helplines.
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