Health Ministry to Expand Mental Health Services Nationwide

The Minister of Health, Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, has announced plans to roll out psychiatry and speech therapy services across all island hospitals in the Maldives, addressing a critical gap in mental health care.

Speaking to local media, Minister Nazim underscored the urgent need for expanded mental health support, citing a rising number of individuals dealing with mental health conditions. Presently, such services are limited to Malé and a few regional hospitals, compelling many to travel long distances for essential care.

To bridge this disparity, the Health Ministry is actively recruiting mental health professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors, and therapists. The recruitment drive targets both local and international experts to ensure adequate staffing and support.

The initiative aligns with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge to prioritize mental health services. As part of this commitment, the Ministry has also introduced a 24-hour mental health helpline, accessible via 1677, to provide immediate assistance to those in need.

This expansion marks a significant step toward ensuring equitable mental health care for communities across the Maldives.