In-person Mental Health Training and Tele Mentoring for Community Health Officers and Mid-level Health Providers in India: A Report from Telangana and Tripura, the Two Diverse States of India
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background: Mental health integration into primary healthcare is pivotal in addressing mental, neurological, and substance use disorders in India. Community Health Officers (CHOs) and Mid-Level Health Providers (MLHPs) play a critical role in providing mental health services at the grassroots levels. Despite existing training modules, gaps persist in implementing sustained, practical training programs. This study evaluated the effectiveness of in-person mental health training combined with tele-mentoring for CHOs and MLHPs in Telangana and Tripura. Methods: A mixed-method cross-sectional approach was employed. In-person training was delivered to 66 participants in Telangana and 396 in Tripura, covering theoretical modules, interactive sessions, and role plays. Pre- and post-assessments evaluated Knowledge (K), Attitude (A), and Practices (P). Instant Collaborative Video Consultations (CVCs) supported participants for three months post-training. Quantitative data were analyzed using paired t-tests, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data from focus group discussions and feedback. Results: < .01). The CVC model facilitated real-time support, with 91.84% of patients being first-time mental health service users. Substance use disorders (31.25%) and common mental disorders (27%) were the most identified conditions. Participants appreciated the interactive training design and recommended ongoing support. Conclusions: The integration of in-person training with tele-mentoring effectively enhanced CHOs' and MLHPs' capacity to deliver mental health services. Scaling this model nationally, supported by continuous mentoring, could significantly improve community mental health outcomes.
Language: English
Subfield: Social Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4415150332