More Mental Well-Being Programmes Needed, Says Health Minister

Minister of Health, Family, and Welfare Dr Geela Ali stressed the critical need to expand targeted mental health initiatives while inaugurating the EPS Foundation’s Shield and Shine Mental Wellbeing Project.

Citing data from Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), the Minister revealed that mental health conditions among the young population increased fivefold between 2015 and 2024. Figures from the higher education sector further showed that 58.9 per cent of tertiary students exhibit moderate to high levels of anxiety, 28.9 per cent suffer from depression, and 28.3 per cent struggle with stress management.

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Minister Geela noted that social settings and online exposure frequently trigger anxiety and other psychological conditions, describing the overall national outlook as alarming. She stated that immediate interventions, policy strengthening, and sustained awareness initiatives by civil organisations like the EPS Foundation are vital to addressing the crisis.

The newly launched Shield and Shine Mental Wellbeing Project aims to connect individuals enduring mental health challenges with essential medical support, train wellness ambassadors, and educate parents and relatives to spot early signs of distress. Developed in collaboration with Eve Clinic’s psychology department, the project was previously piloted in Hithadhoo and Maradhoo-Feydhoo in Addu City.

The EPS Foundation clarified that its trained ambassadors will not diagnose conditions, but will instead offer frontline guidance and facilitate access to professional medical care. The organisation plans to partner with island councils, NGOs, and educational institutions to hold regional awareness sessions for students and parents.

Although currently scheduled to run for a duration of one year, the foundation stated it intends to maintain the project on a long-term, sustainable basis. The EPS Foundation was established in 2018 by alumni to revive and continue the legacy and educational accomplishments of EPS School.

Minister @geelaali graced the inauguration ceremony of the Shield & Shine Mental Wellbeing Project as Chief Guest. This initiative by EPS Foundation seeks to strengthen mental well-being and encourage a supportive and inclusive environment where mental health is understood, valued and prioritised.— Ministry of Health, Family and Welfare (@MoHmv) November 1, 2026