Bhutan has launched a free, nationwide mental health helpline, providing around-the-clock counseling and crisis support. With growing concerns over youth mental health and suicide rates, the initiative is backed by the Ministry of Health and WHO.
The toll-free number connects callers to trained professionals in English, Dzongkha, and local dialects. Officials hope this model can be replicated across South Asia, including in remote Indian hill states and border regions.
Mental health experts from Nepal and Sikkim have already praised Bhutan’s approach, calling it a much-needed step in de-stigmatizing psychological issues in traditional societies.