President Muizzu: Efforts must be made to build a compassionate and equitable mental health system

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has emphasized the necessity of establishing a compassionate and equitable mental health system.

In a post shared on X on Saturday to mark World Mental Health Day, President Muizzu reaffirmed his commitment to establishing a compassionate, accessible, and equitable mental health system in the Maldives, noting that this remains a key pledge of his administration.

President Muizzu stated that the system will be established based on the feedback and practical experiences of service seekers, ensuring it aligns with the needs of the people. He further noted that the government is moving forward with the implementation of this pledge under the "Mental Health Strategic Action Plan 2025–2029."

Furthermore, President Muizzu stated that efforts are underway to implement necessary legislative and policy reforms, including the formulation of a national mental health policy and the drafting of a comprehensive mental health act.

President Muizzu further highlighted that mental health services are being integrated into primary healthcare, while regional and specialized services are being strengthened. He also noted that efforts are underway to expand access by developing tele-mental health services and emergency support systems.

President Muizzu stated that the government's objective is to prioritize disease prevention and proactive healthcare measures, while ensuring easy access to high-quality medical services. He further emphasized that the goal is to build a more compassionate and caring Maldives, beginning within every island, every community, and through every sincere interaction.

In addition, First Lady Sajidha Mohamed marked the occasion by highlighting that mental well-being is rooted in the care individuals receive, as well as the communities and social circles surrounding them. She noted that mental health is shaped daily within homes, schools, workplaces, and the broader community, emphasizing that a significant positive impact can be achieved through active listening and mutual support.

Sajidha emphasized the importance of valuing the insights shared by those facing mental health challenges to better understand what constitutes meaningful support. She further highlighted the need to transform the discourse and mindset surrounding mental health, encouraging individuals to seek help and raising awareness to ensure that support is accessible to everyone in need.

She also called for collective efforts to build an environment where everyone is heard and supported, while working to eliminate the discrimination and negative perceptions associated with mental health illnesses.

However, many citizens are raising concerns that the quality of healthcare services has significantly declined under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration, with increasing difficulties in accessing Aasandha coverage. Complaints have mounted regarding the unavailability of medications that were previously accessible without any hindrance. Despite the government providing various deadlines to resolve these issues and stabilize the medicine supply, the administration has so far failed to address the shortage. Furthermore, reports have recently surfaced of mental health patients facing deteriorating conditions due to their inability to obtain essential medication.