MoH plans to expand mental health workforce as services reach 14 districts

With growing concerns around mental health, particularly among children, adolescents and young people, the Ministry of Health (MoH) says efforts are underway to improve access to services and increase the number of trained mental health professionals in the country.

The MoH said mental health services have now been integrated into primary healthcare in 14 districts, allowing people to access support closer to their communities.

“Significant progress has been made in expanding access to mental health services. Mental health services are now available in 14 districts through the integration of mental health into primary healthcare,” the ministry stated.

To address the shortage of specialised professionals, the PEMA Secretariat, in collaboration with the MoH and the Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan (KGUMSB), is developing new training pathways for clinical counsellors, mental health nurses and mental health outreach workers.

“The first cohort of Bhutanese clinical counsellors is currently pursuing postgraduate training in Clinical Psychology through the collaboration with the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), India,” the MoH said.

The ministry added that the PEMA Secretariat is also working with the Royal Civil Service Commission and educational institutions to strengthen career pathways for psychologists, counsellors and other mental health professionals.