The Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS), The Maldives National University (MNU), in collaboration with the Mental Health Department of the Ministry of Health, conducted a panel discussion on Mental Health and Wellbeing Among Young People as part of activities marking World Suicide Prevention Day. The session brought together high school and university students to strengthen awareness of mental health, suicide prevention, and pathways to appropriate support.

The multidisciplinary panel included a psychiatrist from Hulhumalé Hospital, a representative from the Mental Health Department overseeing the mental health helpline, a licensed counsellor, and a Senior Lecturer from MNU. The involvement of professionals from clinical, counselling, helpline, and higher education settings provided students with perspectives on recognising distress and accessing different forms of support.

The discussion focused on practical aspects of suicide prevention and youth mental health. Students explored warning signs of emotional distress, when to seek help, coping with difficult situations, and ways of supporting peers. Particular attention was given to a help-seeking hierarchy, helping students understand different sources of support and when it may be appropriate to progress from seeking assistance from trusted peers or adults to accessing professional, helpline, or emergency services.

The session also highlighted the importance of creating supportive environments in which young people feel safe to speak about emotional difficulties and seek assistance early. By providing direct access to mental health professionals and information about available support pathways, the activity aimed to strengthen students’ practical awareness of how and where to seek help when experiencing distress or when concerned about someone else.

With 50 participants, the session provided an opportunity for direct engagement between young people and professionals working across the mental health and health sectors. The collaboration also strengthened connections between MNU and the Ministry of Health, supporting a coordinated approach to mental health promotion and suicide-prevention awareness among young people.

The initiative contributes directly to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being, particularly through mental health promotion, suicide-prevention awareness, and early help-seeking. It also supports SDG 4: Quality Education by promoting student wellbeing and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through collaboration between higher education and health-sector partners.

The panel reflects FHS’s commitment to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young people through health education, professional engagement, community awareness, and collaboration with national health-sector partners.