Mental health is often an overlooked issue in marginalized communities, where poverty, violence, and social exclusion can significantly impact psychological well-being. MANIHAR WELFARE TRUST, since its establishment in 2017, has been actively working to address this gap in Mumbai’s urban slums by promoting mental health awareness and offering counseling services to individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Recognizing the complex relationship between mental health and socio-economic challenges, the Trust is committed to providing accessible and effective mental health support to vulnerable communities.
Raising Awareness About Mental Health
One of the core aspects of the Trust’s approach is mental health education. In many underprivileged communities, mental health issues are often misunderstood or stigmatized, leading individuals to suffer in silence. To combat this, MANIHAR WELFARE TRUST conducts awareness campaigns to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage people to seek help when needed. These campaigns are delivered through workshops, seminars, street plays, and community meetings, where mental health professionals and counselors provide essential information on recognizing the signs of mental illness, understanding its causes, and knowing where to seek help.
The Trust also works with local community leaders, teachers, and healthcare providers to create a supportive environment where people feel comfortable discussing mental health concerns. By dispelling myths and promoting open conversations, MANIHAR WELFARE TRUST is changing attitudes and empowering individuals to prioritize their mental well-being.
Providing Counseling and Psychological Support
In addition to raising awareness, the Trust offers direct counseling services for individuals who are struggling with mental health challenges. Many people living in Mumbai’s slums face high levels of stress due to poverty, unemployment, domestic violence, and substance abuse, all of which can lead to anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues. To address these concerns, the Trust provides confidential counseling sessions to help individuals cope with their emotions and build mental resilience.
These services are offered free of charge to ensure that people from low-income communities can access the support they need. Counselors work with individuals to address a wide range of issues, including trauma, family conflicts, substance abuse, and grief. In addition to one-on-one sessions, the Trust also conducts group counseling sessions, where participants can share their experiences and receive emotional support from peers who are facing similar challenges.
For individuals in need of more specialized care, MANIHAR WELFARE TRUST works closely with local hospitals and mental health organizations to provide referrals and ensure comprehensive care. The Trust’s holistic approach ensures that no one is left without the support they need.
Empowering Women and Children Through Mental Health Programs
Women and children are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues, especially in marginalized communities where they face gender-based violence, child labor, and social exclusion. MANIHAR WELFARE TRUST has developed specialized programs aimed at providing mental health support for these groups.
For women, the Trust offers trauma-informed counseling, focusing on those who have experienced domestic violence, sexual abuse, or financial hardship. These services help women regain control over their lives, build self-esteem, and navigate challenging circumstances. For children, the Trust runs child-focused counseling programs that address issues like school stress, bullying, and emotional trauma. Through play therapy and other child-friendly approaches, the Trust helps children develop emotional resilience and coping skills.
Training and Capacity Building for Local Professionals
To ensure the sustainability of its mental health programs, MANIHAR WELFARE TRUST also invests in capacity building for local health workers, community leaders, and educators. By training these individuals in basic mental health first aid, active listening, and counseling skills, the Trust empowers the community to become agents of change and support mental health initiatives at the grassroots level.
