Mental health is a critical aspect of our overall well-being, yet it remains one of the most overlooked and stigmatized areas of healthcare. Nevertheless, there are a few organizations that are tirelessly working to steer us towards the right approach to address this glaring issue. One such organisation that stands out in this domain is MPower. Since its inception in 2017, it has been working towards making mental healthcare accessible and affordable, impacting over 20 million lives.
In this interview, TheCSRUniverse speaks with Parveen Shaikh, Vice President- Operations at Mpower, to delve into the factors behind Mpower's success, their ambitious goals, and their strategic plans for the future. She discusses their comprehensive approach that includes awareness, clinical care, outreach, academia, and helpline services. We explore their innovative initiatives and extensive collaborations with government bodies as well as their educational programs that have fostered a supportive environment for mental health.
The interview also covers Mpower's future projects aimed at scaling their initiatives to touch 150 million lives in the next six years, the challenges they face in strengthening the mental health ecosystem in India, and the evolving public attitudes towards mental health. Parveen shares insights into how Mpower plans to leverage technology, partnerships, and community engagement to achieve their vision.
Scroll down for a more nuanced understanding of mental health in India through MPower’s approach and initiatives:
Q. Mpower has touched over 20 million lives since its inception in 2017. What were the major factors and initiatives that helped you achieve this feat?
A. Since its inception in 2016, Mpower has positively impacted over 20 million lives through its multifaceted approach. This remarkable milestone has been achieved thanks to several key factors and initiatives that have driven our mission to make mental healthcare accessible and affordable across India and beyond.
Central to our success has been the unwavering support of our dedicated team and the visionary leadership of our Founder and Chairperson, Mrs. Neerja Birla. Her guidance has inspired us to pursue our goal of destigmatizing mental health and providing comprehensive support to communities everywhere.
Mpower’s impact spans across five crucial verticals: awareness, clinical care, outreach, academia, and helpline services. These pillars are supported by a variety of awareness campaigns and initiatives designed to engage the public and foster understanding of mental health issues. Some of them as below:
- Ride to Mpower: Our intercity cyclothon brings together over 300 cyclists to spread mental health awareness.
- The Happy Place: This unique interschool competition focuses on creating mental health awareness among students.
- Art Express: A community-driven wall-painting activity that encourages local participation in mental health advocacy. Etc
These initiatives have significantly increased public engagement and awareness of mental health concerns.
Collaborations with Government Bodies:
- BMC-Mpower 1on1 Helpline: A 24x7 helpline developed in collaboration with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
- Project Oorja with MCGC: A project aimed at training teachers and impacting students. Through this project, in collaboration with the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai, Mpower has trained over 10,000 teachers, impacting more than 2.7 lakh students by creating awareness and providing clinical interventions.
- Collaborative Projects with RPF, CISF, Mumbai Police, and Telemans: Mpower partners with the Central Industrial Security Force to offer mental health services via helplines, workshops, and proactive emotional support. Collaboration with the Mumbai Police with Project Saksham focuses on counselling victims of abuse and perpetrators of crime, while Project Samvedna in partnership with the Government of Maharashtra, Women & Child Development Ministry provides mental health services to children in Child Care Institutes.
These collaborations focus on providing mental health services to build a happier and more resilient nation.
Educational and Capacity-Building Programs:
- Youth Mental Health First Aid Training: This program equips young individuals with the skills to recognize and respond to mental health issues.
- COPE Club: A unique initiative that trains college students to understand mental health triggers and provide initial support as first aiders.
- Minds Matter curriculum: A groundbreaking program that seamlessly integrates mental health education into school studies. This unique approach raises awareness and equips students with essential knowledge about mental well-being. By fostering understanding and resilience, "Minds Matter" ensures a future generation that is both mentally strong and well-prepared for life's challenges.
Apart from the above we have conducted numerous mental health awareness workshops in schools, colleges, and workplaces, empowering communities with the knowledge and skills to support mental health locally.
Beyond awareness and education, Mpower’s clinical services are accessible through multiple locations and online platforms, ensuring that mental health support is available to everyone. Our community projects address the specific needs of various groups, further extending our impact.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mpower's proactive response included counseling for frontline workers and the launch of the Mpower e-clinic, providing critical support during a challenging period.
These combined efforts have enabled Mpower to touch over 160 million lives, fostering a more informed, supportive, and stigma-free society. As a social enterprise, Mpower provides multidisciplinary mental health services under one roof, focusing on five key areas: awareness, clinical care, outreach, academia, and helpline services.
Q. You aim to touch 150 million lives in the next six years. How do you plan to scale up your existing initiatives to achieve this ambitious goal?
A. To achieve the ambitious goal of touching 150 million lives in the next six years, we are focusing on a multifaceted holistic approach to scale up our existing initiatives effectively. Our strategy is rooted in expansion, capacity building, partnerships, and technology integration, ensuring we can make a profound and lasting impact on mental health across diverse communities.
Strategic Expansion:
We expanded our geographical footprint in 10 new states apart from the 12 locations across India that we are already present in; with a mission to provide high-quality mental health services to a broader population, particularly in non urban areas where such support is scarce. Our recent outreach efforts in 10 new states are a testament to this commitment, as we engage closely with youth populations to build a strong presence.
Capacity Building:
Our capacity-building programs are critical to our scaling strategy. Initiatives such as the COPE Club, which trains 25 youth from each participating college in mental health, and our collaborations with NSS cadets in Maharashtra, empower young leaders to champion mental health awareness and support within their communities. Additionally, we train ASHA workers and Teachers in government run schools and Tier II markets for community based outreach, our Youth Mental Health First Aider Program is designed to equip young people across India with the skills to act as first responders for mental health issues, fostering a culture of peer support and proactive care. The community capacity building programmes aimed to provide skills to provide community first aid and skills for individuals dealing with concerns, enabling a community ecosystem.
Partnerships:
We are forging strengthened partnerships with government bodies and NGOs nationwide to facilitate large-scale programs and community projects. These collaborations are crucial for reaching the most vulnerable groups and ensuring that our initiatives have a widespread and inclusive impact such as collaboration with RPF Jawans, CISF, Mumbai Police, NIMHANS to set up telemanas.
Leveraging Technology:
To overcome geographical barriers and extend our reach to amplify impact, we are leveraging digital technology to enhance our online counseling and telehealth services. Mpower recently launched the Mpowerminds APP to connect and set up counselling appointments hassle free making counselling available anywhere everywhere. Similarly our toll free 27X7 mental health helpline number 1800 120 50 820 050 ensures mental health counseling is available for those in need easily.
Educational Programs and Awareness:
Our educational programmes are aimed at having a preventative approach towards Mental health. Increasing the scope of our educational programs is a key component of our strategy. By expanding initiatives like the Youth Mental Health First Aid Training and conducting mental health literacy workshops, we aim to empower more individuals to support mental health within their communities. Simultaneously, we plan to amplify our awareness campaigns and advocacy efforts to further destigmatize mental health and encourage more people to seek help.
Awareness programmes:
Our large scale awareness programmes where we engage with local communities to drive awareness through conversations and participation on mental health also helps us reach our to larger audiences events such as Ride To Mpower( A intercity cyclothon), Art Express (A community based wall painting activity) Collaboration with TATA Marathon to promote awareness on mental health and many more.
Through these comprehensive strategies, we are confident in our ability to significantly expand our impact and touch 150 million lives by 2030. Our focus remains on creating a supportive and inclusive environment where mental health services are accessible to all.
Q. What innovative approaches or future projects does Mpower have in the pipeline that would help you in moving towards this goal?
A. At Mpower, we are deeply committed to making India a happier and more resilient nation, with a special focus on our youth. As we advance towards this goal, we have an exciting array of innovative approaches and future projects that embody our vision and dedication to mental health.
This year, our awareness campaigns would focus on empowering young individuals by providing them with essential mental health tools and resources. Through interactive workshops, mentorship programs, and peer support networks, we aim to build a robust foundation of resilience among young people, equipping them to handle life's stresses and thrive in their personal and academic pursuits.
In tandem with our youth-focused efforts, we recognize the transformative power of digital technology in expanding access to mental health care. To this end, we wil promote and enhance our digital outreach through the "MpowerMinds app. This online platform will offer on-demand mental health support, including virtual counseling sessions, an extensive library of resources, and user-friendly self-help tools. By leveraging digital solutions, we ensure that mental health support is accessible to anyone, anytime, breaking down the barriers of geographic and temporal constraints.
Our commitment to mental health also extends into the realms of sports through our sports psychology vertical. We plan to pioneer the integration of mental health support into these crucial areas through strategic partnerships with schools, colleges, and sports organizations. By embedding mental fitness training, stress management techniques, and emotional wellness workshops into these settings, we aim to foster environments where mental well-being is as prioritized as physical health and academic achievement.
Community engagement remains at the heart of Mpower's mission. We are expanding our grassroots outreach especially in the 10 new states we have entered this year, activities such as "Mental Health Fairs, awareness workshop which will take place in both urban and rural areas across India would be pushed more aggressively to provide communities with direct access to support and fostering a culture of openness and acceptance around mental health issues.
Looking ahead, Mpower is poised to make a profound impact on the mental health landscape of India. Our holistic approach—encompassing education, digital innovation, community outreach, and strategic partnerships—positions us to address current mental health challenges while laying the groundwork for a future where every individual has the resources and support they need to thrive. We are dedicated to creating a culture where mental health is prioritized, and seeking help is seen as a sign of strength. Together, we are building a resilient and mentally healthy India.
Q. What is your assessment of the current state of mental health in India? How have you seen it evolve since Mpower entered the domain?
A. The current state of mental health in India reveals a landscape that has undergone significant changes, particularly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, mental health was largely overlooked, often dismissed under the umbrella of general wellbeing. Conversations about mental health were rare and frequently stigmatized, preventing open dialogue and support.However, the pandemic has dramatically shifted this perspective. It has exposed the critical importance of mental health, bringing it into the spotlight. Studies show a 60% increase in the acknowledgment of mental health issues in the workplace since the onset of COVID-19. This growing awareness is also reflected in the actions of numerous organizations that are now prioritizing employee wellbeing programs, integrating mental health into their core policies.
Despite this progress, substantial challenges remain. Access to mental health services is still limited; only about 10% of those needing care receive evidence-based treatment. Funding is another critical issue, with mental health receiving less than 1% of India's total healthcare budget. Additionally, cultural and social stigma continues to hinder people from seeking help, exacerbating the treatment gap.
At Mpower our efforts to promote mental health awareness and combat stigma have led to significant impact, with over 212,965 sessions conducted and more than 20 million lives touched. We’ve seen growing acceptance across diverse communities, fostering open conversations and improving holistic health.To address the existing gaps, strategic solutions are essential. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) can be instrumental in expanding the reach and quality of mental health services. These collaborations can combine the government's extensive infrastructure with the innovation and resources of the private sector, creating a robust framework for mental health support.
Increased funding is crucial. We need substantial investment from both government and private sectors, not just for research, but also for the execution of mental health services. This will ensure that care is not only sustainable but also scalable, reaching a broader population.
Moreover, investing in community-based mental health services can bridge the accessibility gap, especially in underserved and remote areas. Tailoring these services to meet the specific needs of different communities can enhance their effectiveness.
Integrating mental health services into primary healthcare is another effective approach. This integration can normalize mental health care, making it as routine as visiting a general physician, and significantly reduce stigma.
Continued efforts in public education and awareness are vital. By fostering a supportive environment through workshops, seminars, and media campaigns, we can encourage more people to seek the help they need.
In summary, while the landscape of mental health in India has evolved significantly, addressing the remaining challenges through strategic solutions is essential. Mpower remains committed to making mental health support accessible, affordable, and a priority for all, ensuring that every individual receives the care they deserve.
Q. What was the major challenge that you faced (or continue to face) in strengthening the mental health ecosystem in India? How are you addressing it?
A. One of the most significant challenges we face in strengthening the mental health ecosystem in India is the deep-seated stigma surrounding mental health. This stigma is particularly pronounced in rural areas, where mental health issues are often misunderstood or dismissed. Many people believe that counseling or seeking help is only for the "crazy" and not for everyone, making it difficult to promote mental health care as a necessity for all.
To address this, we launched Project Samvedna, which works closely with rural communities. Our goal is to benefit over 250,000 individuals by collaborating with 40 Primary Health Centres under the Government of Maharashtra. This project aims to integrate mental health care into primary health services, making it more accessible and less stigmatized.
However, addressing stigma is just one part of the solution. Ensuring accessible and affordable mental health care requires robust government support, as only the government has the reach to ensure that every individual can access these services. Funding is another critical issue; mental health care in India receives only about 3% of the total health expenditure. To bridge this gap, it's crucial for both the public and private sectors to increase their investment, not only in research but also in the implementation of tailored mental health services.
Corporations also have a vital role to play. Those committed to building a resilient nation should invest in mental health initiatives to enhance accessibility and reduce costs. Finally, fostering awareness and normalizing mental health conversations is essential. By promoting open, stigma-free dialogue, we can encourage more people to seek the help they need and ultimately strengthen the mental health ecosystem in India.
Q. How have public attitudes towards mental health changed in recent years, and what role has Mpower played in this transformation?
A. In recent years, public attitudes towards mental health in India have undergone a significant transformation, particularly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Previously, mental health was often a silent concern, overshadowed by physical health. The pandemic, however, brought this "silent pandemic" into the spotlight, highlighting the critical importance of mental wellbeing.Today, there is a growing recognition that mental health is integral to overall health. This shift is evident as more people seek support from mental health professionals. However, access remains limited, with only about 30% of individuals with mental health conditions receiving the care they need, according to recent data. This highlights both progress and the substantial gap that still exists.Mpower has played a pivotal role in this evolving landscape. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we launched several initiatives to provide essential mental health support. One of our key efforts was the ‘BMC-Mpower 1on1’ helpline, created in partnership with the BMC and Government of Maharashtra. This helpline operated around the clock, receiving over 65,000 calls from individuals across the country seeking counselling and support during these challenging times. Recognizing the diverse needs of those in distress, we also introduced a 24x7 live chat facility for those who preferred digital communication. Understanding the unique pressures faced by frontline workers, our "Support Frontline - COVID Warriors" program provided structured therapy to over 200,000 healthcare workers and other frontline staff, helping them manage the immense stress they encountered.
These initiatives have been crucial in not only providing immediate support but also in changing the narrative around mental health. By making mental health care more accessible and visible, especially in remote areas, we have helped destigmatize mental health discussions. Our efforts have encouraged more people to openly talk about their mental health, seek help, and prioritize their mental wellbeing, marking a significant step forward in creating a more aware and supportive society.
Q. What has been the response from the corporate sector regarding mental health? Can you discuss some of the partnerships and collaborations you have formed with corporates?
A. Mental health is not just an overlooked feature in communities, but highly in the workplaces. Research has shown that in the 36 largest countries, 12 billion productive days are lost each year at a cost of $925 billion due to depression and anxiety. So we conducted a Mental Health and Wellness Quotient at Workplace Survey, which sheds light on the challenges faced by corporate India, emphasizing the pressing need for mental health support within workplace environments. We found that 42% of corporate India is depressed or suffering from anxiety disorders. Almost half our workforce is at risk of mental health issues and women are at a greater risk than men. Data also showed high signs of burnout, demotivation, and reduced work efficiency, as a result of poor mental health across sectors in the country.
Companies can effectively raise mental health awareness through multifaceted approaches tailored to their workforce. Conducting engaging awareness sessions, workshops and seminars led by mental health experts can help educate employees and dispel stigma. Leveraging internal communication channels like newsletters, emailers and intranet posts to share informative content and personal stories can further drive home the importance of the issue. Additionally, observing designated mental health days/weeks with activities like webinars, podcasts and mindfulness sessions can foster an open culture around the topic. Crucially, leadership teams must reinforce their commitment through consistent messaging and by modeling supportive behaviors.
