The COVID-19 pandemic has created an environment of prolonged fear and uncertainty resulting in shared trauma and mental health issues across communities.  Ripples of Change Foundation, in collaboration with Heartfulness Institute (HFI),  has launched a dedicated community support helpline “Voice That Cares (VTC)” to provide counselling services to the public.

Voice That Cares is a public helpline that provides psychosocial counselling support on a wide range of mental health matters including anxiety, fear, panic attacks, guilt, grief, loneliness, anger,  exam stress, pandemic-induced psychological issues, stigma, etc. We also provide first aid support for people with suicidal tendencies, depressive disorders, substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and other mental health concerns. 

Hired executives and trained committed volunteers run this helpline to provide compassionate and empathetic listening to people in distress.

Voice That Cares was launched on 24 June 2021 by Global Guide of Heartfulness, Mr Kamlesh D Patel (Daaji) along with guests of honour – Dr Thiruppugazh, Additional Secretary, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Government of India and Dr Sekar Kasi, Professor & Head, Registrar, Center for Psychosocial Support in Disaster (NIMHANS).

The primary expected outcome of the “Voice that Cares” initiative is to offer individuals an improved ability to manage their well-being and mental health. It may be noted that this helpline is not a substitute for medical advice or professional help.