Meaning and Purpose
- "Maitra" means "bond of friendship" in Sanskrit.
- It is a tele-counseling helpline providing "Emotional First Aid" for those in emotional distress.
- Operated by the Institute for Psychological Health (IPH) since June 26, 1998.
Operations
- Run by trained community volunteers under the supervision of IPH professionals.
- Maintains high-quality standards through methods like ‘Call Autopsy,’ regular call audits, and monthly case discussions held consistently for 16 years.
- Available from 9 AM to 9 PM on working days and 9 AM to 1 PM on Sundays.
Role and Impact
- Acts as a non-judgmental, empathic listener—a "faceless friend" who offers support without rejection, ridicule, or judgment.
- Ensures total anonymity for callers, fostering open discussions focused on finding the best solutions collaboratively.
- Received over 22,000 calls so far, with approximately 8,000 being direct help calls.
Relevance
- Addresses the growing emotional challenges caused by urbanization, nuclear families, and lack of support systems.
- Provides reassurance and guidance for individuals experiencing stress in work, home, or personal relationships, regardless of age, gender, or social background.
Documenting the Journey
- The story of Maitra, authored by Ms. Sulabha Subramaniam, details its origin, functioning, and serves as a guide for starting similar helplines.
Motto
- "Help is just a call away in times of emotional distress."