ASHA ShikshaNCDs & Comprehensive Primary Health Care · 4/5
Mental health and elderly care
psychologyMental health
Signs to notice: sad for more than 2 weeks, not sleeping or eating, not interested in anything, talking to self, hearing voices, very suspicious, or fits (epilepsy). These are illnesses and can be treated.
Listen without judging. Mental illness is not caused by spirits or black magic.
phoneGet help
Refer to the MO or the district mental health programme. Free counselling on Tele-MANAS: 14416. If a person talks about ending their life, do not leave them alone and get help urgently.
Also watch for alcohol and drug problems.
elderlyCare for the elderly
Check elderly people for poor vision (cataract), hearing loss, falls, memory loss, and bed sores. Help them get free treatment and pension schemes. For bedridden patients, teach families about palliative care.
Remove slippery floors and give good light at night to prevent falls.
infoFor training ASHA workers. Always follow your ANM, Medical Officer and the latest Government guidelines. In an emergency, call 108.