First Conference on Mental Health Commences in the Maldives
Photo: IGMH
The inaugural mental health conference in the Maldives commenced yesterday, organised by the National Center for Mental Health at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH).
#Oevaru2023 Mental Health Conference by National Centre for Mental Health (NCMH) continues on for its afternoon session. ‘Introduction to Motivational Interviewing for practitioners’
conducted by Dr. Shaystah Dean (Clinical Psychologist) is ongoing at Meerumaa, Malé City.… pic.twitter.com/0SX5LwKR8X— IGMH (@igmhmv) October 14, 2023advertisement
This conference aligns with the observance of Mental Health Day this month and carries the theme “Changing Currents – Forming Connection.” Pre-conference workshops of the Oevaru Conference were conducted in Male’ yesterday, with the remaining sessions set to take place at the Paradise Resort over the next two days. The event features keynote speeches, research presentations, and panel discussions.
First Lady Fazna Ahmed attended the inaugural session of the 'Oevaru Mental Health Conference,' an initiative by the National Center for Mental Health. The conference, spanning two days, is centered around the theme 'Changing Currents: Forming Connections.' pic.twitter.com/HJpXzTHVQf— The President's Office (@presidencymv) October 15, 2023
The conference drew over 100 participants, including mental health providers and various institutions dedicated to promoting mental health awareness.
Mental illness, often a stigmatised and neglected issue, has received increasing attention in recent years. Over the past five years, the government has taken steps to enhance public awareness and access to treatment including the establishment of the Mental Health Centre, Maldives first dedicated department for mental health.
To extend mental health treatment to the regions, services have been introduced in tertiary and regional hospitals. Consequently, public perceptions of mental illness have evolved, leading to a significant rise in the number of individuals seeking treatment. In response to growing demand, the government has expanded mental health coverage under Aasandha, making it accessible for all.
