Government Launches New Mental Health Support Services Across Malta

Minister for Health Jo Etienne Abela and Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli have introduced a range of mental health initiatives, aiming to improve awareness, accessibility, and community support.

With a significant €4.5 million investment, these initiatives target around 90,000 individuals in Malta and Gozo, focusing on reducing mental health stigma and enhancing care availability. Key initiatives include group-based Mental Health First Aid courses, one-on-one sessions with trained professionals in collaboration with local councils, and a Call Out service to proactively check in with individuals who may need support.

Minister Abela highlighted the importance of making mental health support accessible, noting that the existing national mental health helpline (1579) has already handled around 17,000 calls. These new initiatives, he stated, bring the service even closer to the community.

Zerafa Civelli emphasized that free psychological support will now be available to citizens via local councils, as well as online or over the phone. She described the initiative as an effort to enhance the quality of life for all Maltese and Gozitan residents.

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