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Treatment and Rehabilitation Services
Our treatment and rehabilitation services provide comprehensive care for individuals struggling with mental health and substance use disorders (SUD) through both inpatient and outpatient based care. To ensure long term recovery, we offer continuing care services, including support groups and relapse prevention programmes. The program provides services through health facilities, in prison and communities. Under the leadership of Her Majesty, The PEMA Centre, 60 bedded mental health hospital and 200 bedded national rehabilitation centre will cater to specialised state of the art mental health and rehabilitation services. Prison-based SUD treatment and care services are also provided to drug related convicts serving prison terms at Central and District Prisons in the country.
Mitshey Yarab Lamzang
Mitshey Yarab Lamzang is the upcoming 200-bed national drug treatment and rehabilitation centre dedicated to providing holistic, accessible, and compassionate care to Bhutanese individuals affected by substance use disorders (SUD). The centre aims to reintegrate these individuals as productive and responsible citizens.
It offers comprehensive residential 24-hour SUD treatment and care, including peer support services, evidence-based practices, mindfulness-based programs, and alternative/complementary therapies. The treatment duration ranges from 90 to 135 days. The centre is located in the former Department of Youth and Sports Complex above the swimming pool in Thimphu and will be officially inaugurated this year.
Hospital-based SUD Treatment and Care
This structured outpatient treatment program is designed to help individuals with drug or alcohol problems maintain long-term recovery. It is recommended for highly motivated patients who cannot commit to long-term residential rehabilitation due to occupational or social circumstances. It is also suited for those who have completed long-term residential drug treatment and require continuing care.
The hospital-based SUD treatment and care was formally launched by Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen on October 10, 2022, coinciding with World Mental Health Day. Since then, the services have been implemented at Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital, Gelephu Central Regional Referral Hospital, Mongar Eastern Regional Referral Hospital, and Phuntsholing/Wangdue/Samdrupjongkhar/Samtse Hospitals. The program plans to establish similar services in all district hospitals in the near future.
Prison-based SUD Treatment and Care
The prison-based SUD treatment and care program was launched at Chamgang Central Prison and Nungzor District Prison on November 11, 2023, and February 23, 2024, respectively. The program aims to reduce recidivism among drug convicts with SUDs and reintegrate them into mainstream society as productive and responsible citizens upon release. It is a peer-led 12-Step program combined with a modified Therapeutic Community approach.
Peer Support Services
Peer support groups provide a supportive environment where individuals facing similar challenges can share experiences, learn from one another, and develop coping strategies. Support groups, facilitated by professionals or peers, offer ongoing support, encouragement, and a sense of community during the recovery process. Accordingly, the program will establish peer support services for both mental health and substance use disorders in all hospitals in a phased manner.
Currently, peer support services for individuals with SUD have been established at JDWNRH, CRRH, ERRH, and Phuntsholing Hospital as part of the hospital-based SUD treatment and care service. Peer support services will also be a key component of SUD treatment at the national drug treatment and rehabilitation centre.