Cabinet approves Rs. 250 m mental health program targeting youth

Thursday, 28 August 2025 04:03 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Focuses on suicide prevention, drug addiction and psychosocial issues

The Cabinet of Ministers on Monday approved the implementation of a special program to address rising mental health challenges, particularly among schoolchildren, adolescents, and young adults.

Announcing the decision at the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing yesterday, Minister Vijitha Herath said the initiative will be carried out in collaboration with the Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education Ministry, the National Dangerous Drugs Control Board, the National Institute of Mental Health, provincial and divisional health services, hospitals, and other related institutions.

He said the country has seen worrying trends in recent years, including a persistently high suicide rate, growing drug addiction, and an increase in psychosocial issues among youth.

“As proposed in the 2025 Budget, Rs. 250 million has been allocated to launch a medium-term program under the Health and Mass Media Ministry,” Herath added.

The program will focus on expanding awareness and consultation initiatives aimed at educating schoolchildren and youth on mental health, drug prevention, and coping strategies.

Herath stressed that the move reflects a renewed focus on safeguarding the wellbeing of younger generations, as mental health and substance abuse issues continue to escalate countrywide.

The proposal to this effect was submitted by Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.