Frequently asked questions
Questions and answers
Honest answers to the things people ask us most, including the ones that are hard to ask out loud.
People using SAATHI
Will my family find out?
Not from SAATHI. Browsing SAATHI stores nothing about you. Your family could still learn that you visited if they see your browser history or look at your phone. See the shared phone tips, or use a private window.
What if my in-laws or husband check my phone?
Use a private window, clear your history after each visit, and use the Leave quickly button if someone comes in. Lock sensitive WhatsApp chats and delete call log entries. If checking your phone is part of control in your home, read about coercive control. You can call the Women Helpline on 181 to talk about your safety.
Is it shameful to see a counsellor?
No. People worry about "log kya kahenge", and that fear is real. But asking for help is what a sensible person does with a sore tooth or a fever, and it is the same with a sore mind. A counsellor is for anyone who is carrying too much, not only for people who are "pagal". Many people in your own street have done it quietly and felt better for it.
Can I come here if I also go to a temple, dargah, gurudwara or church, or see a traditional healer?
Yes. Faith and community are a real source of strength, and we respect them. Prayer, a visit to a place of worship, or a conversation with someone you trust can sit alongside other support. We encourage you to also get a medical check, because low mood, anxiety and confusion can have physical causes and can often be treated.
Do I need an account?
No. There is no sign-up and nothing to log in to.
Do I have to give my real name?
No. Call yourself anything you like, even Doraemon, Chhota Bheem, Silvermist or Spider-Man. We only need a way to reach you if you ask for contact.
Is it free?
Yes. Everything on this site is free, and SAATHI never asks for payment. If a service we connect you with charges a fee, we will tell you in advance if any of them charge, and we will favour free and government services.
Is SAATHI a diagnosis?
No. SAATHI never diagnoses. The check-in and the pathways help you understand what might be going on and where to look for help. Only a trained professional who has met you can say more.
Is this an emergency service?
Families and caregivers
How can I support my child without frightening them?
Listen more than you speak, and keep ordinary routines going. Say what you notice, kindly, for example: "You have seemed quiet lately. I am here if you want to talk." The age pathways have guidance for each stage.
My child's exams are close and they are very stressed. What can I do?
Board exams, NEET and JEE put huge weight on young shoulders. Ask how they are, not only how much they studied. Protect their sleep, meals and a little time to play. Read exam pressure together.
I am caring for an elderly parent and feel exhausted. Is that normal?
Yes, very. Caring in a joint family often falls on one person, usually a woman, with little rest. Read caregiver wellbeing, and ask your ASHA worker or PHC about support. Elderline 14567 can help with the person you care for.
What should I do if I think a child is being harmed?
Stay calm, listen, do not promise secrecy, and call Childline 1098. If the child is in danger now, call 112. Read keeping children safe.
Young people
What if I am under 18?
You are welcome here. When you ask for contact, you will be asked to agree that a trusted adult may need to be involved to keep you safe. If someone is hurting you, you can call Childline 1098 yourself, free, any time.
Will you tell my parents?
A counsellor will keep your conversation private, but if you are in serious danger or someone is harming you, they may have to involve other adults. They will tell you first where possible.
My friend says things that worry me. What do I do?
Why do I feel so low before my exams, or about how I look?
Many young people do. You are not weak. See exam pressure and body image, and talk to someone you trust.
Professionals and partners
Who can join as a professional?
Mental health professionals with valid registration, for example, psychologists registered with the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) and psychiatrists registered with the National Medical Commission (NMC) or a state medical council. See for professionals.
How are partners checked?
Every partner goes through the same steps: a registration and credential check, a review of their safeguarding policy, a check of their service area, a data-sharing agreement, and regular reviews. See for partners.
How do I know a partner is genuine?
Organisations appear on SAATHI only after they have been verified. If an organisation is not listed, it has not been checked by us.
Will a computer decide how serious my situation is?
No. A person reviews every request. There is no automated diagnosis.
Which child-protection duties apply to professionals?
Under POCSO, anyone who learns of sexual abuse of a child must report it. Professionals working with SAATHI will be expected to follow this and local child-protection procedures.
About SAATHI
Is this run by the government?
No. SAATHI is not run by, or affiliated with, any government body. We list government helplines, such as 112, Tele-MANAS and 181, because they are free and trusted.
Is this medical advice?
No. SAATHI shares general information and points you to people who can help. Only a doctor or counsellor who meets you can give advice about your situation.
Why are some pages only in English?
Translations on sensitive topics are done carefully by people, so they take time. See languages and accessibility.
What does SAATHI mean?
Saathi (साथी) means companion, someone who walks with you.