A total of 5,634 people has sought help from the mental health helpline as of April 22nd – a little over a year since the helpline was established.
The helpline, 1677, was launched on February 21st, 2024, as part of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s first 100-day pledges.
The helpline is aimed at enhancing quality of services provided to people suffering from various mental health issues via sustainable arrangements.
According to statistics shared with Sun by the Health Ministry, a total of 5,364 individuals had sought assistance from the mental health helpline as of April 22nd. Of this figure, 2,788 people reached out for help in the first four months of this year alone, between January 1st and April 22nd.
One of the primary objectives of the mental health helpline is to serve as the first point of support for individuals of all ages experiencing mental distress. It is one of the main reasons why the service is available 24/7.
In addition to mental health first aid, people who reach out via the helpline will also receive assistance in resolving the issues they face, information, and referrals for relevant services in accordance with set policies.
Health Ministry noted that, despite challenges such as a shortage of professionals in the field, the government is making significant efforts to expand mental healthcare services nationwide.
In this regard, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the helpline service, increasing the number of professionals in the mental health field, and formulating comprehensive policies to address mental health issues.
The first such mental health helpline in the Maldives was established by Maldive Red Crescent during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the 1677 helpline inaugurated last year marked the first 24-hour mental health helpline in the Maldives.