Over 23,600 calls to Maldives mental health helpline since 2024

The Maldives national mental health helpline has received over 23,600 calls since its launch in 2024, according to Health Minister Geela Ali.

The 24/7 national mental health helpline – 1677 – was launched back in February 2024.

At a press briefing on Wednesday afternoon, Geela told reporters that the helpline has received 23,679 calls since its establishment.

This includes 2,576 calls in 2024, 10,821 in 2025, and 10,282 calls so far in 2026.

Highlighting on the progress in mental healthcare, Geela said 201 patients successfully completed treatment through the institutionalized medical care system and were returned to the care of their families. She said that efforts were being made to arrange employment for an additional 64 patients who had completed treatment.

She added that the authorities, in partnership with non-government organizations, have also introduced a home care service for patients.

Geela said that the government was engaged in multiple efforts to strengthen mental healthcare in the country, and was also working on launching a dedicated mental healthcare service for children, and resolving challenges in accessing medicine.

She also announced plans to a 50-bed emergency psychiatric service, expand rehabilitation services, and establish a dedicated facility for female mental health patients.

Geela said that the government has also made significant achievements in mental health awareness and training, with 193 people trained through the Mental Health Gap Action Program, another 164 trained through the Psychology First Aid Program, and  awareness raised among 512 people through the Mental Health Literacy Program.