Mental health helpline suspended due to technical issue; public urged to call 911 for emergencies

The National Mental Health Helpline (1677) operated by the National Mental Health Department under the Ministry of Health has been temporarily suspended due to a technical issue.

The department said Monday that it is currently unable to answer calls through the helpline and is working to resolve the problem as soon as possible.

During this period, the department urges anyone experiencing a Mental health emergency, or situations where there is an immediate risk of harm, to call 911 and seek urgent assistance.

The department apologized for the inconvenience and said efforts are underway to restore the service. Once the helpline resumes, the department will reach out to individuals who requested assistance during the suspension, depending on the situation.

The 1677 helpline was launched on February 21, 2024, offering 24 hour mental health support nationwide.

Demand for Mental health services in Maldives has been rising. On May 23, Health Minister Geela Ali said more than 70,000 people had sought help from Mental health doctors over the past three years, most of them from the Male' region. She also noted that the helpline received over 10,000 calls last year alone.

Police data also show a sharp rise in Mental health emergencies this year, with attempted suicides tripling between March and May.