‘Speak2Us helpline has given shape to community mental health movement’

Commending the volunteers of the Speak2Us helpline, M. S. Chellamuthu Trust and Research Foundation (MSCTRF) founder C. Ramasubramanian said that his long-cherished vision of a community mental health movement had taken shape through Speak2Us.

He was speaking at the sixth anniversary of the Speak2Us helpline here on Saturday.

The renowned doctor observed that as a psychiatrist he could address mental health concerns through a clinical and treatment-oriented approach, whereas Speak2Us volunteers contribute to protecting and promoting the mental health of the community through the helpline and a range of mental health promotional activities.

He appreciated the volunteers for taking mental health support beyond clinical settings and closer to the community.

Speak2Us, which can be reached at 9375493754, is a community-based mental health helpline of M.S. Chellamuthu Trust and Research Foundation (MSCTRF).

A joint initiative of MSCTRF and HCLFoundation, Speak2Us was launched on October 10, 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic with the objective of providing Psychological First Aid (PFA) and emotional support to people in distress. Over the past six years, the helpline has evolved into a sustained community mental health movement driven by committed volunteers.

Lenin Velu, vice-president, MS Build Technology, Chennai, applauded the mission of M.S. Chellamuthu Trust and Research Foundation in addressing the mental health needs of the community and appreciated the commitment of the Speak2Us mental health volunteers. He highlighted the remarkable achievement of the volunteers in handling more than 10,700 calls since the inception of Speak2Us, describing it as a significant accomplishment, particularly for a volunteer-driven movement.

The HCL Foundation Deputy Manager Prabahar stated that the impact created by Happy Schooling and Speak2Us in Madurai, with the support of M.S. Chellamuthu Trust and Research Foundation, has been well recognised by them. He expressed the Foundation’s interest in scaling up these initiatives at the pan-India level. He also suggested exploring the introduction of certificate or term courses in Psychological First Aid through the HCL Academy platform, which could further strengthen the capacity of individuals and organisations to respond to mental health needs.

The Speak2Us, Mentor Rajaram appreciated the efficacy and commitment of the helpline volunteers. Reflecting on the principle that life is a continuous learning process, he noted that every call and every setback provides an opportunity for learning, refining skills and redefining approaches. He encouraged the volunteers to view each interaction as a meaningful learning experience and to continue strengthening the quality of support offered through Speak2Us.

The M.S. Chellamuthu Trust and Research Foundation executive director R. Rajkumari endorsed the commitment, consistency and compassion demonstrated by the Speak2Us volunteers. She highlighted the remarkable growth of the volunteer movement, from around 20 in its earlier phase to nearly 70 volunteers, reflecting the expanding reach and collective commitment of the Speak2Us team.

Standard Fire Works, Sivakasi, Director Tenzing honoured the Speak2Us volunteers recognising their sustained commitment and dedication. He appreciated their invaluable role in cultivating hope and creating a sense of possibility in the minds of those who long for a listening ear and a helping hand during moments of distress.

The six-year journey of Speak2Us demonstrates how a volunteer-driven model can complement professional mental health services and create accessible pathways for people seeking emotional support, he added.