Mysore/Mysuru: Following observation from medical experts that the possible third COVID wave might severely affect children, the Union Government has asked the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS) to provide support with its two Helplines, 1098 for children and 1091 for women. 

Experts have warned that the third wave of Coronavirus is most likely to affect children, which in all likelihood might increase psychological distress level in both women and children. 

The Union Government has now asked NIMHANS to provide assistance and counselling through its Helpline numbers by trained mental  health professionals.

Speaking to press persons, Head of Centre for Disaster Management, NIMHANS, Dr. K. Shekar said, “We have two helpline numbers for women and children. The Ministry of Women and Child Development has asked our institution to provide assistance with trained mental health professionals so that they can address the issues of women and children that may arise as a result of the third wave and its impact on children. We currently have 40 professional volunteers. We have split them into two tertiary and secondary groups to handle the two Helplines.”