The Tele MANAS helpline is a free government mental health service that anyone in India can call at 14416 or 1-800-891-4416, any time of day, in the language of their choice. It began on 10 October 2022 under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and NIMHANS in Bengaluru oversees its operations. For students dealing with exam pressure, loneliness, anxiety or low mood, it is a confidential first step that costs nothing.
Key takeaways
- Phone: 14416 or 1-800-891-4416, toll free, 24 hours.
- Languages: Choose your language on the call; support is offered in around 20 languages.
- App: Tele MANAS mobile app, launched on 10 October 2024, with counselling and video consultation.
- Cost: Free.
- Privacy: Confidential counselling.
Tele MANAS Helpline 14416: how to reach Tele MANAS
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Phone | 14416 or 1-800-891-4416, toll free, 24 hours |
| Languages | Choose your language on the call; support is offered in around 20 languages |
| App | Tele MANAS mobile app, launched on 10 October 2024, with counselling and video consultation |
| Cost | Free |
| Privacy | Confidential counselling |
What happens when you call
The call uses an interactive voice system, and if you are in the queue you may get an automatic call back. Your call goes to the Tele MANAS cell of your state or union territory, where trained counsellors speak with you. The service works in two tiers: the first tier is state cells with counsellors and mental health professionals, and the second tier connects you to specialists for video consultations if you need more than a first conversation. Counsellors can also refer you to local services.
When students use it
- Stress before board exams or entrance tests
- Feeling low, anxious or unable to sleep for several days
- Pressure from family expectations or comparison with friends
- Loneliness after moving to a hostel or a new city
- Worry about a friend and not knowing what to say
You do not need to be sure that something is wrong. A first call can simply be to talk through what you are feeling.
In an emergency
If you or someone near you is in immediate danger, call the national emergency number 112 or go to the nearest hospital. Tele MANAS is for support and counselling; in some states, calls about suicidal distress on the emergency line are passed to trained Tele MANAS counsellors. If you are thinking of hurting yourself, tell someone you trust right now, and call 14416 as well.
Using it well
- Find a quiet spot and keep your phone charged.
- Say what is bothering you in plain words, even if it feels small.
- Ask the counsellor for next steps, including local services if you need ongoing care.
- Call again if things do not improve. One call is not a test you pass or fail.
Also tell a teacher, a family member or a friend. The college counselling centre, if there is one, can help too. For habits that support wellbeing, read about the Fit India movement.
Helping a friend who is struggling
You do not need to be an expert to help. Listen without judging, avoid saying things like cheer up or it is nothing, and ask whether they have eaten and slept. Encourage them to call Tele MANAS with you sitting beside them if that makes it easier. If they talk about harming themselves, do not keep it a secret: tell a teacher, a warden or a family member, and call for emergency help if the danger is immediate. Looking after yourself matters too, so if the conversation leaves you shaken, talk to someone about that as well.
Tele MANAS Helpline 14416: scale of use
A government release in October 2024 said Tele MANAS had served over 14.7 lakh calls in two years since launch, through 52 Tele MANAS cells across states. Those numbers show that many people already use it, which can make it easier to make your first call.
Rules, dates and amounts for Tele MANAS Helpline 14416 can change, so confirm the latest official notice before you act.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Tele MANAS helpline number?
It is 14416 or 1-800-891-4416, toll free, available 24 hours a day.
Is Tele MANAS free?
Yes. The helpline and counselling are free of charge.
Is the call confidential?
Yes, the service offers confidential counselling.
Which languages are supported?
Callers can choose their language; support is available in around 20 languages across states and union territories.
Can students use Tele MANAS?
Yes. Anyone can call, including students dealing with exam stress, anxiety or personal worries.