Thirty people to be trained to raise awareness about mental health

Maldivian Nursing Association is training 30 people from Hulhumale' Phase 2 to raise awareness about mental health as part of activities marking World Mental Health Day.

The initiative, called the Hope Ambassador Training programme, is funded through a community grant from the Bank of Maldives (BML). The project supports the Nursing Associations broader efforts to develop rehabilitation and awareness programmes for people living with mental health conditions.

Associate Professor Dr Fathimath Shifaza of the Australian Catholic University told Mihaaru News that the training was initially planned for two participants from each Hiyaa tower, but the response was limited.

“We therefore decided to expand the programme to the wider Hulhumale' Phase 2 community,” she said.

The sessions, which begin tomorrow, will be led by mental health professionals, including doctors, psychiatrists and nurses.

“Our purpose is to increase awareness and prepare people,” Dr Shifaza said, explaining that the programme is not designed to train counsellors, but to equip residents with the knowledge to support mental wellbeing in their communities.

“It’s about helping people understand what they can do for their own wellbeing and for others. By the end of tomorrow’s training, participants will have an action plan,” she added.

The training will cover topics such as understanding mental health and illness, recognizing signs of distress or suicide risk, and providing community-level support to those affected.