BHUBANESWAR: Amid rise in suicides in the state, Manam Foundation has partnered with the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) to train volunteers in 'barefoot counselling' for prevention of incidents of self-harm.
Manam, an NGO offering mental health services, said barefoot counselling refers to a practical, hands-on approach to provide psycho-social support and psychological first aid within a community. The barefoot counsellors are not necessarily qualified mental health professionals but can provide accessible initial support and guidance to peers, colleagues, students or community members experiencing stress or mental health challenges. The organisation plans to train at least 10,000 barefoot counsellors in a year.