Hyderabad: These are tough times, and it is not possible for everyone to sail through smiling. And that is where the psycho-social counselling service of the Rachakonda Police is coming in handy for many.
Since its launch on May 10, 253 persons have called the psycho-social counseling service number of Rachakonda Police, with expert counsellors addressing their issues by equipping them with positive affirmation, a few tips and actionable strategies. Mostly youngsters in depression and with suicidal tendencies are seeking the support of psychological services, officials said.
Counsellors say having someone to hear and a timely support for mental health issues prevent suicides. Considering these mental health challenges as important as physical health services, Rachakonda Police Commissioner Mahesh M Bhagwat said the psycho-social counselling service was launched with 14 counsellors.
Of the 253 calls received so far, 78 were stress related, 52 were Covid-19 related mental health issues, 15 were depression related and 18 with several psychological problems. There were nine callers with suicidal tendencies, seven who were troubled by marital issues while the rest had various issues including health as well. “Many calls were from young people who are in depression and feeling low in the uncertainty caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Be it a software employee or a student or a hawker, everyone has a certain degree of fear of the future in the pandemic situation,” Bhagwat said.
Stating that the fear of suffering was dangerous than the actual suffering, Bhagwat said while there were many affected with Covid, there were even more affected with the fear of Covid. There were in fact many who suffered the brunt not because of Covid but because of the fear of the disease.
“Those affected with Covid can be treated as they can be diagnosed, but of concern are those who are suffering silently with no chance to share or treat their fears,” he added. The Commissioner said the counsellors were in fact protecting the lives of people who were struggling with thoughts of suicide. To avail the service, citizens can call on 040-48214800 during week days from 9 am to 9 pm, to share and vent their feelings and fears so that professional counsellors can offer their advice or treatment as required.
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