Free mental health support for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their family members in Madurai
To promote mental well being and create a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals, their friends, and family members, the Transgender Resource Centre in Madurai, in collaboration with the Omega Forum for Social Impact (OFSI), has been offering free mental health consultations from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. every Thursday.
The initiative, which began a month ago, has so far supported close to 18 individuals, with around 15 attending in person and three opting for phone-based sessions. Most of those who have sought help fall between the ages of 20 and 30. The counselling sessions are conducted by a psychological counsellor on the centre's premises .
The centre offers both individual and group counselling formats, with follow up sessions arranged based on the needs of each individual. Interns associated with the centre are also eligible to avail of the service.
S. Shalini, Project Manager at the Transgender Resource Centre, highlighted the prevalence of suicidal tendencies within the LGBTQIA+ community and stressed the importance of accessible mental health support. She noted that individuals who have participated in the sessions have shown visible improvement in emotional stability, with many overcoming suicidal thoughts.
Common concerns raised during sessions include relationship issues, family rejection, emotional indecision, fear, confusion about identity and future, lack of peace, and insomnia. The centre encourages individuals struggling with such challenges to fix an appointment and access the free counselling services.
Funded by OFSI, the programme is currently in its early phase. Plans are underway to expand its reach, particularly to rural areas. 'We hope to raise awareness by putting up posters near Primary Health Centres (PHCs) so that people in remote locations can also benefit,' said Ms. Shalini.
She further emphasised the need to introduce gender related studies in schools and colleges and to sensitise teachers, which she believes will foster greater societal understanding and inclusion.
Those interested in availing the counselling can visit the centre at 5, E2, E2 Street, Chinnachokkikulam, Madurai – 625002, or call 9360730317 / 9965140064 for appointments and information.
(Assistance for overcoming suicidal thoughts is available on the State's health helpline 104, Tele-MANAS 14416, Sneha's suicide prevention helpline 044-24640050 and Speak2Us mental health helpline 9375493754.)
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