A Solely Dedicated Mental Health Institute Opens in Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital

Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) has officially opened a mental health ward to accommodate patients with mental illnesses. According to IGMH, the new mental health ward commenced on June 27^th with 9 beds for admission and a de-escalation room equipped to treat patients in severe psychological distress. The hospital also stated that the ward has exercise machines for patients.
 
People seeking psychological treatment increased following the establishment of the Centre for Mental Health that was established by the hospital in 2019, with over 44,000 mental health patients recorded in 2019 compared to an annual average of 10,000-35,000 in previous years.
 
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of psychological issues increased in the Maldives. However, a comprehensive study of mental health issues in the Maldives has yet to be conducted.
 
Prior to this, there was no dedicated ward for the treatment of those suffering from mental illnesses, and only a few beds were available for any in-patients in need of treatment. President Ibrahim Mohamed Soih announced the opening of such a ward during his address to the Parliament this year.
 
The government has been working to improve the treatment of mental illnesses. In 2019, the administration established a department for mental healthcare, the Center for Mental Health, at IGMH as part of those efforts.