Jamshedpur: In a significant move to highlight the importance of mental health, Jeevan Suicide Prevention Center, Jamshedpur, is observing the month of July as National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, also recognized globally as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour) Mental Health Awareness Month.
The initiative is aimed at addressing mental health challenges within minority communities—particularly racial, ethnic, and sexual minorities—who often struggle with unequal access to mental health care and continue to face deep-rooted societal discrimination and stigma.
Mental health professionals at Jeevan emphasized that barriers to proper identification, treatment, and counseling still persist in these marginalized groups. “Due to widespread misconceptions, many mental health issues remain hidden, compounding the suffering,” said a spokesperson from the center. “This month is an important opportunity to address these gaps and remove the stigma associated with seeking help.”
To mark the month, Jeevan has launched a series of awareness sessions, community-based counseling efforts, and expanded helpline services to reach those in need. The initiative aims to encourage timely support-seeking behavior and highlight the role of families and communities in recovery and healing.
As part of the awareness drive, the center is calling on individuals experiencing stress or depression to reach out without hesitation. Jeevan’s trained counselors are available through its confidential helpline services at 9297777499 and 9297777500. In-person counseling is also being offered at Jeevan Suicide Prevention Centre, 25 Q Road, Bistupur, Jamshedpur.
The center firmly believes that increasing mental health awareness is only possible with the active participation of all sections of society. “With empathy and collective effort, we can build a more inclusive and supportive environment for those struggling with mental health issues,” said the official.
