President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that access to mental health services must be a guaranteed right.
In a tweet on World Mental Health Day, President Solih said he calls for a whole-of-society approach to bolster the commitment to raise awareness and make mental health and well-being for all a global priority. He said timely and affordable access to mental health services must be a guaranteed right for all.
The prevalence of mental illnesses is increasing in the Maldives and the government has been working to provide mental health treatment. As part of the efforts, Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) opened the Centre for Mental Health in 2019 and opened a mental health ward to facilitate the admission of mental health patients in June 2022.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recognises World Mental Health Day on October 10. This year’s theme is Make Mental Health and Well-being for all a Global Priority.