As we come together at the closing of the PEMA symposium on mental health, we find ourselves at a critical juncture where empathy meets action.

The discussions over the past two days have underscored a fundamental truth: mental health is the cornerstone of our collective well-being, touching every corner of society. Let us take this moment to transform our shared insights into ensuring change as we continue our journey towards a more compassionate and supportive future for all.

For meaningful progress, solutions must emerge from a collective effort. It cannot be the sole responsibility of professionals. Families, friends, teachers, and the entire community have important roles in creating strong and caring support networks.

His Majesty often reminds us that our strength is in our unity and our community spirit. Just like a Dzong is built with many stones placed by people from all walks of life, our mental health care needs this strength and support of our whole community.

Bhutan is witnessing a disturbing rise in suicide rates, a multifaceted challenge profoundly impacting families and communities. Key contributing factors include mental health struggles, societal pressures, limited access to resources, and unfortunately, various forms of bullying. It is painful to see anyone in our community feeling alone in their struggles. We must build bridges, not walls, making sure everyone knows help is available. Losing even a single life to suicide is a collective failure on our part.

As many of our teachers, counsellors, and education officials are present today, it is important to acknowledge your critical role in supporting students’ mental health. You are on the front lines, shaping the future of Bhutan. While we often associate mental health with policies and healthcare, significant impact happens at the school level, where your support can be lifesaving.

Counsellors, you create safe spaces for students to share their feelings, serving as the first line of support for those in need. Your ability to identify students who need more support and connect them with necessary resources is invaluable and can truly make a difference.

Principals, your leadership is crucial in creating a school environment that prioritizes mental health, transforming schools into safe havens where students feel seen and heard.

Teachers are often the first to notice when a student is struggling. With compassion and care, you can reach out, connecting them with the school counsellor, offering words of encouragement or simply letting them know that they are not alone. Sometimes, something as simple as a kind word of love and care from a teacher can be the light that guides a student through their darkest moments.

The key to all these roles is empathy. Understanding and sharing our students’ feelings helps us build trust and break down barriers. It’s about supporting them rather than solving every problem, and showing them that help and hope are always available. Your commitment helps build a strong and caring community – much like a team of superheroes supporting mental health.

As we conclude, let us reflect on the profound impact we can have in combating suicide and bullying and promoting mental health. Our combined efforts – whether it’s listening to a friend, opposing harmful behaviour, or advocating for better mental health resources —are the foundation of a compassionate and resilient society.

To those who have experienced the pain of these challenges, remember that you are not alone. Your courage in sharing your journey lights the way for others and inspires us to do better. To the educators, counsellors, health workers, and mental health advocates who work tirelessly, thank you for your steadfast commitment. By engaging in these critical conversations, you are not only raising awareness but driving change. You are the pillars of hope for many in need.

I also want to express my deepest gratitude to the entire team at the Pema Secretariat. Your dedication and unwavering commitment have saved many lives, providing hope every day despite great challenges. You truly exemplify service and care, creating a brighter future for those in need. Thank you.

Let’s recognise the power within each of us to be agents of change. Imagine a world where every individual feels safe to share their story without fear of judgment, where seeking help is seen as strength, and where compassion is our first response. Let’s leave here with a commitment to action – to challenge misconceptions, support those in need and use our voices to inspire real change. Together, we can rewrite the narrative, turning whispers of struggle into triumphs of resilience.

Thank you for being here and for pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Together, we can forge a future of hope and healing.

Tashi Delek