Nepal is currently navigating a period of political turmoil and social uncertainty. Amidst these turbulent times, the role of digital media has become prominent, with numerous videos and updates circulating across social platforms. Some are cautionary, while others are highly sensitive and affect people differently.

Recognising this, several mental health and well-being organisations have stepped forward to provide free counselling services, ensuring support is accessible to those who need it. These organisations turned to social media to circulate crisis helplines, contact numbers, and information on how people can reach out for assistance.

Happy Minds has announced that they are offering free mental health services to everyone in need. Through their digital media platforms, they posted with a caption, “While you are helping shape a new nation, help us support you and your parents during this difficult time. We are opening our team for mental health support.” They have also provided their immediate crisis support numbers: 9801570102 for the free mental health helpline for youths and parents, and 9801031443 for free priority therapy access. In addition, they have listed toll-free support through the TPO Nepal National Suicide Helpline.

Project Green Circle, in partnership with SSIF (Shirin and Sajmila International Foundation), is offering free counselling for those affected by the ongoing protests in Nepal. “Right now, Project Green Circle is offering free counselling sessions for anyone impacted by the ongoing protest in Nepal,” the organisation writes on social media. People can call or text 9851361096 or 9706093790, with over 80 trained counsellors supporting 50 clients daily. The service is open to all; no prior mental health diagnosis is required, providing a safe space to talk, vent, and heal.

Rita Lawati, a mental health professional serving as psychologist/counsellor at the Self-Help Group for Cerebral Palsy organisation for the past four years, shares their efforts: “My colleagues and I have initiated free group sessions, creating safe spaces for anyone in need to express their emotions and feelings, alongside providing individualised counselling support. These sessions are currently being conducted through Messenger, with plans to expand to platforms such as Zoom and Google Meet.”

Fheal, a counselling hub for mindful healing, has also come forward to provide support during this crisis. The organisation released its hotline numbers for free counselling and emergency assistance, available via call or WhatsApp. “For emergency support and free counselling, you can reach out to us,” the organisation writes on its social media. The primary hotline numbers are 9707626590 and 9808512949.

The Healer Nepal is another organisation providing free mental health services during this crisis. A hub for psychological support, The Healer Nepal offers mental health counselling and physiotherapy. Sabina Giri, the founder, says, “Through Zoom and Google Meet, we are offering breathing exercises and group sessions where everyone can come together to share their emotions.”

She explains their approach through three key principles: listen, look, and link. “With ‘link’, we mean that while individuals may feel alone in their emotions, sharing in a group setting helps them realise that these feelings are common and experienced by many,” she shares. The organisation provides free counselling services, and those in need can reach out via 9767484949 or 9767484646.

Hearing Minds also provides free mental health support for youths and families during this crisis. Through their social media platforms, they shared a message of solidarity: “To the brave young people shaping our nation's future, we stand with you. To the parents watching your children fight for change, we see your strength and concern,” they shared. Emergency mental health support is available through their crisis support numbers: 9808448989 and 9764398992.