A toll-free hotline, 1456, has been launched to provide counselling, mental health support and guidance to young people.

The service aims to provide counselling, psychological support and other assistance to young people under one roof.

The hotline will offer counselling, emergency psychological support and health screening services for individuals and families. It will also provide life-skills training, psychological awareness sessions and additional support related to mental and physical wellbeing.

The service will be available by calling 1456 from 8am to 2pm every day except public holidays.

The number of people seeking treatment for mental health conditions in the Maldives has increased in recent years. The National Mental Health Helpline, 1677, provides mental health support 24 hours a day.

Free counselling services are also available through the Happiness Lounge at the Youth Hub run under the Ministry of Youth.