United Way Delhi, in conjunction with the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS) and the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) to the Government of India, organized “Svasti: A National Consultation for Reframing Mental Health Services” at NIMHANS, Bengaluru. This exceptional event assembled renowned mental health leaders from academia, government, private sector, and civil society to exchange expertise, experiences, and groundbreaking ideas to enhance mental health services across various strata.
Inspired by its Sanskrit namesake, which means “well-being for all,” the Svasti consultation addressed the complex challenges of providing cost-effective mental health care to the most at-risk and marginalized populations. The gathering established a unique forum for a multifaceted group of individuals, each dedicated to distinct aspects of mental health services and target populations.
The consultation’s first segment delved into the challenges of access to and quality of mental health services, with an emphasis on women, children, youth, and informal sector workers. The latter segment explored challenges and recommendations related to mental well-being, stressing the need for robust policy implementation and investigating emerging technical innovations.
The event culminated in a collective commitment to execute a strategic roadmap for mental health services in India. Through this groundbreaking partnership, United Way Delhi, NIMHANS, and the PSA Office aspire to foster a supportive and inclusive environment for those confronting mental health issues, ultimately transforming the mental health landscape in India.
