Pearl Tiwari, director and CEO of Ambuja Foundation, suggests that training and equipping "Mental Health Champions" can help in tapping into the potential of grassroots frontline workers to identify and support individuals with
mental health conditions.Tiwari also emphasized that by engaging with the community, these Champions can recognize mental health issues, offer initial counseling assistance, and establish pathways for referrals. We have developed a cost-effective, easily expandable, and research-supported approach to promoting the
mental well-being of our rural community members.The 'Mental Health Champions' program is currently being implemented in isolated communities, with the help of 'Mitra's who offer support in mobilizing people. Additionally, 'Community Facilitators' are in place to oversee the work of these Mitras. Champions are armed with professional Audio-Visual content covering important topics such as stress, distress, depression, anxiety, livelihood loss, and
domestic violence. They have the ability to raise awareness about mental health issues, reduce the stigma surrounding them, and offer basic support services to assist people in dealing with common mental health disorders.Mental Health Champions in India’s rural areas are equipped with skills such as active listening, behavioural activation, problem solving, and relaxation methods. They have the potential to bridge the gap in providing first line
mental health services in these hard to reach areas.The model is already acknowledged as one of the top solutions, so the next step is to expand its reach across India. We need to
raise awareness among NGOs, the Government, and other CSR and civil society organizations to invest in implementing community-based, affordable interventions like this. Tiwari explained that only when the issue of mental health in rural India is brought to the forefront, will we see the significant investment needed to address this soon-to-be-recognized "sleeping giant".
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