United Way Delhi, in alliance with the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS) and the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) to the Indian Government, spearheaded “Svasti: A Cutting-Edge Consultation for Mental Health Services Reinvention” at NIMHANS, Bengaluru. This revolutionary gathering brought together esteemed mental health visionaries from diverse sectors, such as academia, government, private industry, and civil society, to exchange forward-thinking insights, experiences, and innovative strategies to elevate mental health services at various levels.
“Svasti,” a Sanskrit phrase meaning “well-being for all,” encapsulated the essence of the event’s objectives. The consultation delved deeply into the multifaceted challenges of providing cost-effective mental health care to the most vulnerable and marginalized communities. It created a unique platform for a heterogeneous group of individuals, each dedicated to different aspects of mental health services and target populations.
The first part of the discussion zeroed in on the barriers to accessibility and quality of mental health services, with a special focus on women, children, youth, and informal sector workers. The second part concentrated on addressing challenges and devising recommendations for mental well-being, particularly emphasizing the need for robust policy implementation and understanding emerging technological breakthroughs.
The Svasti consultation concluded with overwhelming support and commitment to implement a roadmap for mental health services in India. This collaborative effort will contribute to creating a positive and supportive environment for individuals facing mental health challenges, making a significant impact on the country’s mental health landscape.
