Our story began informally in 2016. Initially, we were a small group of mental health practitioners seeking connection and a space to discuss best practices. However, witnessing the deep-seated social challenges, the increasing unrest, and the profound, often unmet, mental health needs within Manipur compelled us to evolve. As social unrest grew, so did our resolve. We’ve evolved to meet the needs of a region where 19.9%-20% of people face mental health challenges – nearly double India’s average.

Crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, where we fielded distress calls, and the devastating ethnic conflict erupting in May 2023, which created widespread trauma and displacement, solidified our purpose. We transitioned from a simple network into a responsive collective, actively engaging in:

Manipur, our home, is a land of breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant cultural diversity, home to numerous distinct communities. Yet, beneath this surface lies a history marked by profound challenges that deeply shape the lives and well-being of its people. For decades, the region has navigated complex socio-political unrest, protracted armed conflict involving multiple actors, ethnic tensions, and human rights violations, alongside economic and social marginalization. This enduring instability has cultivated an environment often characterized by fear, uncertainty, and pervasive stress, leaving an indelible mark on the collective psyche and contributing to pre-existing mental health vulnerabilities.

This long shadow of conflict was tragically intensified by the eruption of ethnic clashes in May 2023. This recent violence inflicted fresh, acute trauma across the population, leading to devastating consequences: significant loss of life (at least 227 people) and the mass displacement of approximately 70,000 individuals, many forced into relief camps. These overlapping layers of historical and recent trauma cast a heavy burden on the mental health of Manipur’s residents, creating the challenging landscape within which The Collective Trust operates.

We operate within this reality, acknowledging:

• A Silent Crisis: Mental health challenges in Manipur are significantly higher than the national average, exacerbated dramatically by recent events, with staggering rates of PTSD (over 65% in some IDP camps) and anxiety reported, particularly among Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).
• Vulnerable Groups: The conflict disproportionately impacts women, children, IDPs, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those struggling with substance use, each facing unique barriers and traumas.
• Systemic Barriers: Pervasive stigma, a critical shortage of trained professionals and infrastructure, the high cost of care, and challenges like the digital divide create significant obstacles to accessing support.

Our work is deeply informed by this context, striving to provide relevant, sensitive, and effective support.