In the last eleven months, about eight thousand five hundred people from all over the state have been able to talk freely on the helpline “Sakal Sobat Boluya” for guidance on various mental health problems. For the past seven months, a team of fifteen expert counsellors, psychiatrists and psychologists has been providing psychological support to the callers on the helpline, giving them proper counselling and guidance round the clock.
In times of corona and lockdown, and even in normal conditions, the incidence of depression is increasing due to various stress problems at home with family. This helpline has provided a platform for people to express themselves and get proper guidance, which has become a positive guide for those who face these issues.
On behalf of the Sakal Media Group’s Sakal Social Foundation, “We are in this together” campaign with the courtesy of Punit Balan Group and the Center for Mental Health and Disabilities of Karve Social Service Organization for Stress Management and Overall Mental Health and Problems, this 24-hour free helpline is being implemented from August 2020.
The male class accounted for 62.1% of the helpline callers. The proportion of women was 37.4%. According to the age group, the proportion of people in the age group of 18 to 29 was 8.9%, the age group of 30 to 49 was 29.4%, the age group of 50 to 69 was 44.5% and the age group of 70 and above was 6.9%. The proportion of people in other age groups was 10.3%. Also, 60.6% of people were from urban areas. 31.8% of people were from semi-urban areas, 7.6% of people were from rural areas. These callers were 43.8% graduates and 14.5% postgraduates, and It was followed by highly educated, primary-secondary educated, and diploma holders.
Among the 8,500 people who call the helpline, the private sector (32.3%) ranks first. It is followed by housewives (12.5%). Students (10.7%) and professionals (9.4%) are in third place. Also, the number of government employees and people who have lost their jobs due to lockdowns, unemployed people, farmers, workers in the unorganized sector are calling for help.
Major issues we received with incoming calls mainly include anxiety, stress, suicidal ideation depression, relationship stress, marital problems, depression due to financial difficulties and unemployment, depression due to genetic diseases and problems, and other health problems.
Online Appointment for Counseling
Some people need constant counseling. With this need in mind, to seek the guidance of expert counselors at a nominal fee for citizens of all ages on the psychological problems caused by anxiety, worry, loneliness, stress, and depression. Through this website, citizens can book appointments with expert counselors at their convenience, time, and their problem.
How to book online for counseling
You can book an appointment by opening the following link, filling in your personal information, and choosing the day and time as per your convenience.
Call on our helpine number 020-71171669 and talk to our couselors freely. Your personal information will be kept confidential.
