The National Mental Health Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029 will ensure accessible mental health services to all citizens, Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has stated. The Minister made the remark while speaking at a ceremony held to launch the five-year National Mental Health Strategic Action Plan for 2025-2029.
The five-year National Mental Health Strategic Action Plan 2025 - 2029 was launched by the First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed.
The National Mental Health Strategic Action Plan serves as a roadmap to further strengthen the country’s mental health system while promoting mental health by strengthening mental health services and expanding treatment options.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Nazim said the roadmap describes in detail the work that needs to be done in the mental health sector. He expressed confidence that if the plan is implemented properly, the mental health system will be further strengthened and developed.
The Minister further stated that a modern healthcare system is incomplete without adequate mental health services. He noted that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s policies give high priority to mental health. He went on to state that the government has made great strides in enhancing the mental health system, including the launch of a national helpline for mental health emergencies. The newly inaugurated action plan symbolises the importance of promoting mental health as an integral part of wellness, he stated.
Announcing plans to establish a dedicated centre for mental health with the assistance of the Indian government, the Minister said preparations are already underway. The service will also be expanded to the atolls, he added.
Acknowledging the World Health Organisation (WHO), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Australian government’s assistance in formulating the National Mental Health Strategic Action Plan, the Minister further noted the guidance and commitment extended by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to strengthen the health sector.