Karnataka launches ‘Human Library' for mental health awareness
Bengaluru: In an effort to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, the National Health Mission (NHM) in Karnataka has introduced 'Manas Samvaadha: Human Library', a novel intervention in India.
While the 'Human Library' concept is established in Europe and elsewhere, this marks its first formal application in an Indian public mental health programme.
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The pilot programme currently operates in Bengaluru Rural, Ramanagara, and Chikkaballapur districts. Individuals with lived experiences of mental health conditions serve as "books", sharing their personal narratives with "readers" in open, respectful, and structured environments.
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"The 'Human Library' concept, originally developed in Denmark, is being implemented in India for the first time through this initiative. We have successfully identified 30 'books' (individuals with lived mental health experience) and established 15 libraries for Human Library sessions," said NHM Karnataka MD Naveen Bhat.
He added: "Eight individuals have already been sharing their experiences in Doddaballapur since last week. Sessions in other districts will commence within a week." The initiative aims to create safe spaces for dialogue, help communities challenge stereotypes, and encourage early help-seeking behaviour.
As part of efforts to communicate mental health issues and possible interventions, a street play was organised at Kantankunte in Doddaballapur, where 89 ITI students attended and 19 subsequently participated as 'readers'.
To enhance community engagement, the street play campaign is expected to expand across other taluks.
Officials indicated the next phase will focus on more comprehensive training for 'books' and preparation for 'readers', ensuring sessions are conducted in a sensitive and confidential atmosphere.
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