Minister urges to prioritize mental wellness citing declining state of mental illnesses

Health Minister Abdulla Nazim has appealed to the public to prioritize mental wellbeing, citing concern regarding the declining state of mental illnesses in the Maldives.

In a statement on the occasion of World Mental Health Day, Minister Nazim said the day is marked with the aim of raising awareness on mental health and bringing attention to the topic on a global and national scale.

The theme for this year’s World Mental Health Day is 'Mental Health at Work', emphasizing on the crucial role of addressing mental health and well-being in the workplace, benefiting not only individuals but also organizations and communities as a whole.

Minister Nazim, in his statement, underscored that one in every five people suffer from mental illnesses as per the World Health Organization (WHO).

The Ministry, citing a 2022 WHO step survey, said one in every five people experience symptoms of depression while one in every 20 people have suicidal ideation because of mental illnesses.

“If mental illnesses are not prevented early, in addition to the obstructions for treatment, a huge expense is incurred in this trajectory. Moreover, inconsistent and irregular engagement in labor due to mental illnesses adversely impact families’ income and also the nation’s productivity,” he added.

As such, the Minister said the global economy loses approximately USD 1 trillion per year.

He emphasized the importance of investing in matters related to mental health.

The Minister further said the current administration aims to make significant investments in the mental health sector to pave the way for easier access to quality mental health care.

“It is my appeal that each citizen and each organization become one that cares for the others’ mental well-being and is educated on the topic,” he said.