The Befrienders Initiative (India) (BI) is a national umbrella organisation of non-governmental organisations working in the field of suicide prevention and mental health awareness across India. Through a network of affiliated suicide-prevention helpline centres, BI is committed to offering compassionate emotional support to individuals experiencing distress, loneliness, or suicidal thoughts.

Our work is grounded in empathy, confidentiality, and non-judgemental listening. We believe that being heard can be life-saving. Befrienders are trained volunteers who offer their presence without judgement—listening with care, understanding without advice, and walking alongside individuals during moments of crisis.

BI and its affiliated centres engage in outreach programmes, capacity-building initiatives, and awareness efforts aimed at reducing stigma around mental health and promoting emotional wellbeing. By fostering connection, hope, and human warmth, the Befrienders Initiative (India) strives to reduce emotional pain, prevent suicide, and uphold the dignity of every individual who reaches out for support.

The Befrienders Initiative (India) is registered as a society in the state of Kerala and is affiliated with Befrienders Worldwide, headquartered in London (UK), aligning with global standards and best practices in emotional support and suicide prevention.