Karnataka launches India’s first public mental health ‘Human Library’ initiative

The National Health Mission (NHM) in Karnataka has launched a pioneering mental health awareness initiative titled Manas Samvaadha: Human Library, marking the first formal implementation of the Human Library model in a public mental health programme in India.

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Initially rolled out in the districts of Bengaluru Rural, Ramanagara, and Chikkaballapur, the pilot project features individuals with lived experiences of mental health conditions serving as “books.” These individuals share their personal stories with “readers” in open and structured sessions designed to promote empathy and understanding.

A total of 30 such “books” have been identified, and 15 Human Library spaces have been established to host sessions. In Doddaballapur, eight participants have already begun engaging with community members. Other districts are scheduled to begin sessions within the coming week.

The initiative aims to break down stigma around mental illness, foster respectful conversations, and encourage timely help-seeking among affected individuals. As part of community outreach, a street play was recently held in Kantankunte, attracting 89 ITI students, of whom 19 participated as readers.

Plans are underway to expand the street play campaign across other taluks to boost local engagement. Moving forward, officials plan to provide more extensive training for both “books” and “readers” to ensure sessions are conducted in a sensitive, confidential environment that supports healing and understanding.