Bhutan Grapples with Hidden Mental Health Crisis Amid Stigma and Cultural Expectations

Bhutan, a small Himalayan kingdom known for its focus on happiness and well-being, is facing a hidden mental health crisis. Despite the country's reputation as a peaceful and content nation, high rates of suicide, depression, and anxiety are prevalent, particularly among the youth.

The stigma surrounding mental health issues and societal expectations to maintain a facade of happiness are major barriers to addressing this growing problem.

According to Dr. Chencho Dorji, Bhutan's first qualified psychiatrist, there are only six psychiatric doctors catering to a population of over 750,000. Mental health awareness has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, but cultural norms and beliefs, such as the fear of mental illnesses being contagious, continue to fuel the stigma. Many Bhutanese prioritize physical health over emotional needs, and the ability to express emotions is limited in the local dialect.

Deki Choden, a Bhutanese counselor, notes that mental health is a new concept in Bhutan, and people often do not understand conditions like depression or anxiety. The government is working to address this issue, but more needs to be done to provide accessible and affordable mental health services, raise awareness, and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.

Why this matters: Addressing Bhutan's mental health crisis is crucial for the country's overall well-being and development. The hidden nature of the problem and the cultural barriers to seeking help make it a challenging task that requires a comprehensive approach involving government, healthcare providers, and the community.

Dr. Dorji aims to train more psychiatric doctors and build the number of mental health support workers in the country, with the goal of having at least one psychiatrist at every hospital. Healthcare professionals in Bhutan are working to reach, must, focus, healthcare to break down the cultural taboos that prevent people from seeking help.

However, the lack of resources and trained mental health professionals, as well as the deeply rooted cultural beliefs, make it a challenging task that requires a long-term commitment and a shift in societal attitudes towards mental health.

Key Takeaways

• Bhutan faces a hidden mental health crisis despite its reputation for happiness.
• Stigma, cultural norms, and lack of mental health awareness are major barriers.
• Bhutan has only 6 psychiatrists for a population of over 750,000 people.
• The government is working to address the issue, but more needs to be done.
• Addressing the mental health crisis is crucial for Bhutan's overall well-being.