
sumunum connect
(the helpline was active from 2020-2022)
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the covid-19 pandemic has had a debilitating impact on the mental health and wellbeing of individuals, families, and the larger ecosystem. in light of these extraordinary circumstances, the need to connect with one another was urgent and immediate. connection to provide reliable information; to support; to offer relief & respite; to listen; to share in losses; to problem solve; to share joys; to gather & manage resources; and to remind each other that we are not alone.
as a continued commitment to wellbeing, we initiated
sumunum connect
a free, centralised toll free, multi-lingual, emotional health and wellbeing telephonic service.
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a non-judgemental and safe space for individuals to share their stories, struggles, and experiences, and receive problem solving and handholding support to manage daily struggles and navigate acute mental health needs and any other well being related issues.
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in addition, we offered specific information resources pertaining to mindfulness, art based interventions and activities that can be done to alleviate distress and promote wellbeing. for individuals who have diagnosed mental health conditions, who are unable to access their current care providers, connect also offered a specialist ‘call-back’ service from a psychiatrist / relevant mental health professional to provide support.
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sumunum connect was run in 2020-21 by a multidisciplinary team that includes mental health professionals, coaches, mental health service users, arts practitioners, teachers, palliative care, specialists, doctors, social entrepreneurs & lawyers. all non-mental health professionals have undergone an intensive 100 hour training programme in:
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work and life balance
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fears and insecurities.
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emotions and moods management
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negative thought patterns
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pandemic associated fears
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general and specific anxieties
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mental health crises and distresses
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coping mechanisms and strategies
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self-harm thoughts and tendencies
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psychological first aid
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counselling micro skills
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non judgemental listening & responding
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enabling caring conversations & creating safe spaces.
​​​​​​​​​​​​our team is constantly striving to ensure that every voice is heard.
we also recognise the courage, grit and determination it takes to reach out. so we are sharing a few narratives of courage & resilience in the hopes that it will inspire others in similar situations of distress to reach out:
note: consent to share narratives anonymously has been obtained. names have been changed to protect confidentiality.
contact tracing
sumunum collaborated with the greater chennai corporation, in order to converge efforts and ensure that services are available to those who need it the most. sumunum volunteers worked with the state run psychosocial helpline & lent support in contact tracing - the process of supporting patients and warning contacts of exposure in order to stop chains of transmission.
we engaged with medical professionals, mental health professionals, social workers & municipal authorities to offer support. our conversations were focused on enabling stronger wellbeing for -- people across the state who tested covid-19 positive, caregivers, those in contact with others tested positive, people going through periods of quarantine, self-isolation / admissions to hospitals & those staying away from their homes, and in need of essential supplies.â €
the COVID-19 pandemic ushered in unprecedented challenges for those of us working in wellbeing spaces. here, we present a tapestry of stories from our volunteers, capturing their unique experiences while working on the helpline.




connect would not have been possible without the kind efforts of our volunteers. their support has helped us strengthen our arts & wellbeing services & support those in need.
we thank you for your time and dedication!
