In line with our mission to enhance community-based mental health care and support, The  PEMA Secretariat in collaboration with National Medical Services successfully trained Health Assistants from all Primary Health Centres and GDMOs from hospitals in Samtse and Chukha, two dzongkhags with higher prevalence of mental health conditions. While we continue to strengthen tertiary care through specialized professionals and infrastructure, we are also empowering primary healthcare workers with essential knowledge and skills for community-based mental health care. 

The training, led by experts from the Department of Psychiatry and KGUMSB, with support from MHPSS Joint Program, UNICEF, focused on mental health promotion and integrating prevention programs, early identification and basic management and making timely referrals and follow-up care. 

Participants found the training timely and impactful, equipping them to better serve their communities. This is just the beginning! We plan to expand to all Dzongkhags in the coming phases to reduce the treatment gap.