In a ground-breaking initiative, United Way Delhi, the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS), and the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) to the Indian Government came together to launch “Svasti: A National Consultation for Transforming Mental Health Services” at NIMHANS, Bengaluru. This significant event assembled a diverse group of mental health pioneers from academia, government, private industry, and civil society to exchange expertise, experiences, and innovative ideas to elevate mental health services across the nation.
Named after the Sanskrit term for “universal well-being,” the Svasti consultation aimed to address the intricate challenges of providing accessible and affordable mental health care to the most vulnerable and marginalized communities. By establishing a unique platform, it united professionals dedicated to different facets of mental health services and target populations.
The first segment of the discussion explored the obstacles in accessibility and quality of mental health services, with a particular emphasis on women, children, youth, and informal sector workers. In contrast, the latter segment focused on identifying challenges and formulating recommendations for mental well-being, emphasizing the importance of effective policy implementation and recognizing emerging technological advancements.
With a shared vision and unwavering commitment, the Svasti consultation concluded with a pledge to implement a comprehensive roadmap for mental health services in India. This collaborative effort aims to foster a positive and nurturing environment for individuals grappling with mental health challenges and make a lasting impact on India’s mental health landscape.
