Ministry of Gender, Family, and Social Services has warned of the rise in reported mental health issues in the Maldives. The gender ministry made the statement in a press release on World Mental Health Day 2021.
In the press release, the ministry stated there are currently 161 patients being treated for mental illness at the Home for People with Special Needs in Guraidhoo, Kaafu Atoll. The health care facilities have been facing challenges as more individuals are reporting mental health issues, stated the ministry.
Additionally, the gender ministry stated domestic violence and the COVID-19 pandemic is some of the reasons for the spike in reported mental health issues. The ministry stated the pandemic has caused distress for frontline workers, students, and individuals living alone and that the ministry has provided assistance for individuals seeking psychosocial support.
Furthermore, the ministry stated World Mental Health Day should be seen as a reminder for individuals to show empathy and support for people suffering from mental health issues and to work to maintain a caring community.
The government's strategic action plan for 2019 to 2023 includes working with national health insurance provider Aasandha Company Limited to increase the number of mental health professionals in the country. In this regard, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih inaugurated the country's first Centre for Mental Health in 2019.
World Health Organisation (WHO) has set the theme for this year's World Mental Health Day as Mental Health in an Unequal World, to emphasise the importance of making mental health care available for all.