10 October 2026 | .
Fellow citizens of Seychelles,
Mental health is an essential part of our overall well-being, and every Seychellois deserves to live in a society where seeking help is met with compassion and dignity.
As we commemorate World Mental Health Day, I wish to remind every citizen that mental health matters just as much as physical health. Behind every struggle is a human being, a family member, a friend or a colleague who deserves to be heard, supported and treated with respect.
Indeed, for too long, fear of judgement and misunderstanding have prevented many people from speaking openly about their mental health challenges. Some continue to suffer in silence, while others struggle to access the care and support they need. As a nation, we have a responsibility to change this reality.
Recognising the importance of mental health to the well-being of our nation, my government has established the Mental Health Care Agency, fulfilling a commitment I made to the people of Seychelles during the election campaign.
The Mental Health Care Agency Act, 2025, officially came into force on 1 February 2026, providing the legislative foundation for a more focused and coordinated approach to mental health care in Seychelles.
This is about more than establishing an institution. It is about ensuring that those facing mental health challenges are treated with dignity, that families receive the support they need, and that no Seychellois feels forgotten or left behind.
However, government action alone is not enough. Building a mentally healthier Seychelles requires the collective effort of families, communities, schools, workplaces and healthcare professionals.
I also wish to reach out to those who may be experiencing overwhelming emotional pain or thoughts of suicide. Please do not suffer in silence. Speak to someone you trust, reach out to a healthcare professional and allow others to help you through difficult moments. There is always value in seeking support, and no one should feel they have to face such struggles alone.
Meanwhile, in today's digital age, we must also recognise the impact that social media can have on mental well-being. While these platforms provide valuable opportunities for communication and connection, their misuse through personal attacks, online harassment and hurtful anonymous posts can cause considerable emotional distress.
Behind every screen is a human being with feelings, a family and a personal life. Words written in anger or shared without consideration can leave lasting emotional wounds, even when the person responsible remains anonymous. Freedom of expression carries with it a responsibility to respect the dignity of others. Let us be mindful that what may appear to be a harmless comment to one person can be deeply hurtful to another.
On this World Mental Health Day, I also wish to recognise the dedication of our mental health professionals, caregivers and community organisations who continue to provide care, reassurance and hope to those who need it most.
Let us continue working together to build a Seychelles where mental health is recognised as a national priority, where care is accessible, and where every individual has the opportunity to live with dignity, hope and a sense of be
