Initiatives taken to develop mental health sector: minister

Many initiatives have been taken to develop mental health this past year and progress has been observed, stated Health Minister Abdulla Ameen.

While speaking at a ceremony marking International Mental Health Day, Minister Ameen highlighted the breakthroughs in mental health made by the current administration, such as establishing the National Mental Health Institute and arranging Aasandha for mental health treatment. Furthermore, the mental health centre at Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) has been ongoing since its inception and has treated up to 4,000 people thus far.

The minister noted that mental health treatment needs to be offered outside of the Male' region at the same standard, adding that arrangements are underway to provide a variety of mental health treatment at S.Hithadhoo Regional Hospital, alongside Hdh. Kulhudhuhfushi, L.Gan, R.Ungoofaaru, and GDh. Thinadhoo Dr. Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital.

The minister stated that the programs to develop mental health awareness is being conducted with the support of several ministries, government institutions and non-government organizations.

October 10th is globally celebrated as International Mental Health Day. It is an annual awareness programme that aims to bring awareness to mental health education, awareness, and advocate against social stigma on a global scale.

The ministry has chosen "Mental Wellness" as this year's theme for International Mental Health Day.