TN govt’s mental health helpline a lifeline for students facing exam stress. Number of calls to Tele-MANAS more than doubled over the past year, rising from 37,258 in 2023 to 80,999 in 2024. The highest surge in distress calls occurs between March and September, coinciding with Board examinations, competitive entrance tests like NEET, and result announcements. A study found that over 70 per cent of callers fall within the 20–40 age group. The growing reach of Tele-manAS is a testament to the increasing awareness and acceptance of mental health support in Tamil Nadu, offering hope and solace to those in distress. For confidential support on suicide matters call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 or visit a local Samaritans branch, see www.samaritans.org for details. In the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255 or visit http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/.