Surge in distress calls at mental health helpline after Ahmedabad plane crash

Following the Ahmedabad plane crash on June 12 that claimed 279 lives, mental health helplines have reported a surge in distress calls.

The increase has been attributed not only to those who witnessed the crash firsthand, but also to individuals who were deeply affected by graphic visuals aired on television and circulated on social media.

The central government’s mental health helpline, initially set up to support people in emotional distress, typically received around 50 calls per day. However, after the crash, the volume has spiked to 70-100 calls daily.

Mental health professionals have noted a rise in symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, and emotional distress among the general public. Many individuals have reached out to helpline services seeking psychological and psychiatric counselling.

Officials at the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital also reported that out of the 500 relatives of victims who came for DNA testing to help identify the deceased, nearly 250 individuals required immediate counselling due to severe emotional trauma.

Mental health experts say that many people are struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss of loved ones, and the need for grief counseling and emotional support has grown in the aftermath of the disaster.