Maldives Mental Health Helpline 1677 to Get Chat App, Officials Say

The National Mental Health Department is developing a chat app for the National Mental Health Helpline 1677, which provides 24-hour mental health support, officials said. Speaking on PSM News's Raajje Miadh programme about protecting against mental illness, National Mental Health Department Social Services Coordinator Aishath Shuzza said some people are reluctant to share their concerns through the National Mental Health Helpline. She said the biggest reason is lack of trust, and some people find it difficult to share their conditions because their identity could become known. "We receive requests to speak through chat. We are now working on developing an app for that," Shuzza said. Shuzza said the helpline earlier provided only support for immediate crisis situations. However, because some cases cannot be resolved by providing support just once, she said a case management system has been set up and such cases are now receiving ongoing support. She said it is important to seek the support needed when conditions such as stress, anxiety or panic attacks occur. Shuzza said not seeking treatment when such conditions occur means there is a greater chance of being exposed to them for a long time. She said it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible when a mental health condition occurs, so that it does not lead to conditions such as depression or long-lasting anxiety. Shuzza said reducing stress, eating good food, drinking water and exercising are important steps taken to improve mental health. National Mental Health Department Senior Counsellor Shaina Muhsin said on the programme that although people may be experiencing mental distress, some are reluctant to seek treatment. She also noted that some people fear being diagnosed with a mental illness. However, Shaina emphasized that talking to someone and seeking help to resolve the difficulties one experiences mentally is very important. "A mental health condition is just as important as physical health. Accepting that such a thing has occurred is also a very significant step. That person is not weak. It shows their courage," Shaina said. Shaina also said stress or worries are part of ordinary life, and that it is important to believe that one can get through the situations that arise and to work on doing so. Through the National Mental Health Helpline 1677, 24-hour mental health support is available. Treatment for mental illness is also being provided by the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Health Protection.