First Lady calls for equal prioritisation of mental health in Maldives

First Lady Madam Saeedha Mohamed has urged that equal importance should be given to mental health as is given to physical health, noting that a truly healthy society cannot be built without mental health. She made the appeal while delivering a speech at the opening ceremony of the 16th International Conference of the South Asian Psychiatric Federation, held at the Maldives National University. The two-day conference is taking place from November 1 to 2. The First Lady stated that mental health is not solely related to medical treatment, describing it as an important matter directly linked to human dignity, relationships among people, and the quality of life that society aims to build for the current and future generations. Highlighting that mental health challenges in the region affect people of all ages and sectors, she pointed out the significant problem of silence associated with mental health conditions and the fear of seeking help due to criticism from others. She appealed for the construction of a society that values courage rather than stigmatizing those who seek help, rejecting discrimination and exclusion, and prioritising empathy and understanding. Speaking in her capacity as the First Lady, she shared concerns regarding the mental and emotional well-being of children and youth. She noted that pressures from education, societal expectations, family difficulties, and the unwanted effects caused by the internet constitute a burden on young minds. She emphasised the importance of recognising signs of mental distress, listening without judgment, and responding appropriately, stating that the responsibility to instill mental resilience and patience in youth extends from the family environment to schools and the entire society. Drawing attention to efforts being made to improve mental health in the country, the First Lady highlighted that the government has given special attention to this sector within the framework of the National Health Agenda. She noted the role of the National Mental Health Department and the 24-hour mental health helpline, alongside the 'National Mental Health Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029', which aims to reduce unwanted perceptions about mental illnesses, encourage early help-seeking, strengthen referral systems, and include mental health within basic health services. She stated that no one should be deprived of immediate assistance needed because of their living situation, and that progress in this field must be measured by improved lives and restored hopes. Acknowledging and expressing gratitude for the hard work undertaken by psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, nurses, social workers, and other health professionals, she praised the efforts of the Maldives National University to enhance competence at the national level and called for further research concerning the mental health of children and youth. Concluding her speech, she noted that mental health challenges are not a regional issue specific to any single country, and expressed hope that this conference would bring positive changes to people's lives through technical connections and shared knowledge.