The National Mental Health Department has reported that over 70,000 patients across the Maldives sought treatment for various mental health illnesses over the past three years.
Compared to the Maldives’ population size, a significant number of people seek treatment for mental health issues in the Maldives. Therefore, it is a key priority of the government to enhance services provided in this department under efforts to strengthen the health sector.
Speaking on PSM News’ Raajje Miadhu programme regarding the Mental Health Department’s achievements over the last few years, Deputy Minister of Health Aminath Ismail said although comprehensive studies on mental health in the Maldives are lacking, hospital data and the 2022 GAPS study show 1 in 5 Maldivians exhibit symptoms of depression. The study also detected individuals with self-harm thoughts, which she described as worrying.
The Deputy Minister said the Ministry is working together with different organisations and private individuals to address concerning areas identified from the data, and decrease the number of affected individuals by providing support. She further highlighted that the mental health field is understaffed globally, and that the Maldives is actively working to build capacity and train more professionals in the sector.
The National Mental Health Department’s Social Service Coordinator, Aishath Shuhuza said the figure of 70,000 reflects those who sought care in regional and Greater Male’ hospitals, both government and privately run. However, this number does not include patients who sought treatment from private clinics. She said 23 individuals who were treated for severe mental illnesses were successfully returned to their families last year.
The government aims to strengthen the sector comprehensively and sustainably. Acknowledging that mental health treatment is costly, the government has now arranged for mental health treatment to be fully covered under the national health insurance scheme, Aasandha. The government believes that the benefits of these improvements, such as higher productivity and economic growth, will become visible across the country in the coming years.