President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has emphasised the importance of listening to the lived experiences of people facing mental health challenges to address barriers and strengthen mental health services in the Maldives.
The President made the remarks in his message for World Mental Health Day, observed this year under the theme “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change”. He noted that meaningful progress begins with listening to those who experience mental health challenges and ensuring their voices guide efforts to improve mental health services.
The President highlighted the Government’s efforts to make psychological well-being a national priority, including implementing the Mental Health Strategic Action Plan 2025–2029 and the Dementia Strategic Action Plan 2026–2036.
He also noted ongoing work to develop national strategies for suicide prevention and central and regional mental health services, alongside a National Mental Health Policy 2027–2037 and a comprehensive Mental Health Act. These initiatives will provide a strong policy and legislative foundation for an accessible, equitable and person-centred mental health system.
He further highlighted efforts to expand access to mental health services nationwide by integrating mental health care into primary healthcare and continuing to train health workers. These efforts include expanding tele-mental health and specialist services across the atolls, as well as developing specialised care and dedicated infrastructure.
President Muizzu also highlighted initiatives to raise mental health awareness through workplace and community sessions, alongside efforts to strengthen crisis response systems to ensure timely support, intervention, referral and follow-up for those in urgent need.
He reaffirmed his vision of a Maldives where mental health is recognised as an essential component of overall health, with greater emphasis on prevention, early intervention and community-based care. He stressed the importance of accessible and responsive services and called on families, schools and workplaces to promote well-being.
He said these efforts are vital to building a society where no one feels ashamed to seek help and everyone is treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.
