The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) in collaboration with India Co-Win Action Network (I-CAN) has created a network of qualified and trained counsellors, psychologists and experts for providing toll free tele-counselling to needed children during COVID-19 pandemic.
Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR) chairperson Manibabu Phurailatpam said in a release that the toll free tele-counselling SAMVEDNA (Sensitizing Action on Mental Health Vulnerability through Emotional Development and Necessary Acceptance) will be available on the toll free No 1800-121-2830 from Monday to Saturday from 10 am till 1 pm and 3.30 pm till 8 pm.
The MCPCR said that it is a well established fact that children have unique vulnerabilities owing to specific needs and demands at different stages of growth till the time they reach adulthood. Children may experience a range of psychological issues such as anxiety, fear, worry, depression, difficulty sleeping and loss of appetite during the pandemic and moreover children with physical and mental disabilities are more vulnerable during this trying time, it added.
Pointing out that COVID-19 pandemic has affected children in various ways and many of them have developed unpleasant feelings and behaviour, the MCPCR said that the toll free tele-counselling will help in providing psychological first-aid and emotional support through telephone to the children.
