President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Thursday constituted the National Mental Health Department under Ministry of Health.

The department was established under the discretion vested in the President by Section 116 of the Constitution.

As per a directive by the President’s Office, the number 489 is to be used in all correspondence addressed to the new authority as per the numbering system for state agencies.

The new department will be responsible for drawing up plans for mental health goals by the State as well as organise and implement mental health programmes. The department will also compile policies and regulations for all mental health service providers in the Maldives.