“Mental Health will have the National Priority it Deserves”

The PEMA Secretariat is Bhutan’s national nodal agency for mental health and child protection services, under the leadership of Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen.

See how The PEMA is stewarding Bhutan’s national mental health priority I Need Help

Our Approach

Continuum of Care

Mental health support is not a single service. People need different kinds of help at different moments—from prevention and early support, to crisis response, treatment, and longer-term reintegration. The PEMA follows a continuum-of-care model so that support is coordinated, practical, and consistent over time.

Prevention and Engagement

Promoting mental health literacy, resilience, and early support across communities and institutions.

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Response Services

Immediate support and protection for people in distress, including helplines, counselling, and safeguarding services.

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Treatment and Rehabilitation

Inpatient and outpatient care for mental health conditions and substance use disorders, including continuing care.

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Reintegration and Aftercare

Skills, livelihoods, and structured aftercare to help people rebuild stability, dignity, and social connection.

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Services Directory

Below are the most accessed services. View all services →

Protection & Support

THE PEMA Helpline (1098) ▼

A confidential, 24/7 helpline for protection and psychosocial support. It supports women, children, and anyone experiencing distress, and can guide you to the most appropriate services in your area.

Counselling Services ▼

A supportive space to talk through challenges, relationships, stress, or life changes with a trained counsellor. Online counselling is available through email, Zoom, WhatsApp, Telegram, and telephone. Walk-in counselling is available by appointment.

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Access Support Now

Call 1098 (24/7) – protection and psychosocial support.

If in immediate danger, call 113 (Royal Bhutan Police).

Email: helpline@thepema.gov.bt (support)

Email: enquiry@thepema.gov.bt (enquiries)

Also available via official social media channels.

Top FAQs

→Is counselling really confidential? →Do I need a referral to access services? →Can I remain anonymous when I call? →Can someone call on behalf of another person? →Will I have to pay for services? →What happens when I call 1098? View all FAQs →

Stay Informed

News and Events

Stay up to date with the latest announcements, events, and updates from The PEMA Secretariat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions

Is counselling really confidential? ▼

Yes. What you share remains private. The only exception is if there are serious concerns about your safety or someone else’s safety. In such cases, protective action may be required, and you will be informed and involved where possible.

Do I need a referral to access services? ▼

In most cases, you can contact 1098 directly without a referral. If a referral is required for specialised services, you will be guided through the process.

Can I remain anonymous when I call? ▼

Yes. You may choose not to share identifying details if you are seeking information or initial guidance.

Can someone call on behalf of another person? ▼

Yes. Parents, guardians, teachers, friends or community members can contact 1098 if they are concerned about someone’s safety or wellbeing.

Will I have to pay for services? ▼

Many core services, including the 1098 Helpline and initial assessments, are provided free of charge. Specific programme details can be explained when you contact the service.

What happens when I call 1098? ▼

A trained responder will listen to your concern, assess the situation and help you understand your options. You may receive immediate guidance, emotional support or referral to appropriate services.

View all FAQs →