Actor Sushant Singh Rajput passed away, allegedly by taking his own life at his Bandra, Mumbai residence. This has sent shockwaves across the nation with several expressing their disbelief on social media.

This has thrown light on how much mental health is ignored in the country. Even after multiple conversations on depression, it is only when a shocking suicide like this happens, do people sit up and take note. Experts feel depression, which has only been aggravated due to the COVID-19 crisis, should be declared a public health emergency. Until that happens, here is a list of helpline numbers, apps and pages that can help in the time of need.

AASRA: This Mumbai-based NGO is dedicated to people with suicidal tendencies and battling anxiety and depression. Their 24-hour suicide helpline number is +91-22-27546669

Sneha Foundation: This Chennai-based NGO is also dedicated to supporting individuals who are depressed, distressed, or suicidal. Their 24-hour helpline +91-44-24640050

iCall: Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline for the psychologically distressed has a team of mental health professionals helping individuals across various languages and regions. The helpline number (+91-22-25521111) is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.

7 Cups of Tea: This website and app (available on iOS and Android phones) is an online chat platform offering live support to the depressed and anxious.  

The Pink Project: This Mumbai-based mental health intiative, founded by two psychologists, is offering free online counselling during the COVID-19 crisis.  

People Tree Maarga: Bengaluru-based People Tree is offering free telephonic counsellling between 10 am and 11 pm to those stressed or anxious due to COVID-19. The helpline number is 080-46659999

_vibewithvishuddha: This page on Instagram encourages you to talk about your feelings and emotions or just vent out. Just message them a 'hi' and they'll get in touch.