Maldivian government is set to soon offer psychiatry and speech therapy services at all Hospitals in the atolls to address rising mental health issues.

Health Minister Abdulla Nazim highlighted an increase in mental health problems, including suicides and disabilities, and the difficulties people face accessing care. Currently, these services are only available in Malé, leading to long wait times and travel challenges for those in the atolls.

To improve access, the government will expand mental health services to level-two hospitals, allowing residents to seek help from psychologists, psychiatrists, counsellors, therapists, and social workers closer to home.

At present, only the main hospital, IGMH, and level-three regional hospitals provide these services. This new initiative aims to make mental health and speech therapy more accessible across the Maldives.