FAQs

The PEMA Secretariat is Bhutan’s National Nodal Agency for Mental Health and Child Protection Services, functioning under the leadership of Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, Jetsun Pema Wangchuck. It coordinates national efforts in prevention, response, rehabilitation and reintegration related to mental health, child protection and substance use.

No. The PEMA Centre is Bhutan’s apex mental health hospital providing specialised clinical and psychiatric services. The PEMA Secretariat is the national coordinating body responsible for policy direction, programme development and oversight of prevention, response, rehabilitation and reintegration services.

136 Dharshing, Thimphu, Bhutan. (Above Hotel Osel)

The PEMA Secretariat is a state agency functioning under the leadership of Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, focused on mental health and child protection services. NCWC is a government regulatory body overseeing gender and child-related initiatives. RENEW is a civil society organisation dedicated to empowering women.

General enquiries: enquiry@thepema.gov.bt or 02 332862. Protection and counselling services: helpline@thepema.gov.bt or call 1098 (24/7). Substance use disorder and rehabilitation services: rrd@thepema.gov.bt or 17120056.

Yes. The 1098 Helpline operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

1098 is the national helpline for women and children. It operates 24/7 and provides confidential support, guidance and referrals. It can also assist anyone experiencing mental health distress or seeking information about available services.

1010 is the national hotline managed by the Royal Bhutan Police. If you are experiencing immediate danger or threat, call 1010 for urgent assistance.

Anyone experiencing mental health challenges, child protection concerns, violence, substance use issues or adoption-related matters. Family members, guardians and concerned community members may also seek guidance.

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.

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

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

Counselling is a safe and supportive space where you can speak openly about your thoughts, feelings and experiences. It is a confidential conversation with a trained professional who listens without judgement and helps you gain clarity, develop coping strategies and make informed decisions. You do not need to be in crisis to seek counselling.

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.

A case manager listens to your situation and works with you to understand your options. They help you access services such as safe accommodation, legal support, counselling or other assistance, while maintaining confidentiality and respect.

Drug rehabilitation is a structured programme designed to help individuals reduce or stop substance use, understand contributing factors and build skills to maintain recovery. It focuses on support and recovery rather than punishment or judgement.

Two main options are available: residential rehabilitation (minimum three months with 24/7 structured support in Thimphu) and outpatient rehabilitation (day sessions with return home in the evenings). Programmes may include counselling, medical support, life skills training and relapse prevention education.

You can contact PEMA Rehabilitation directly for a free assessment, call 1098 for confidential guidance, or speak to a counsellor or case manager to coordinate care.

The PEMA Secretariat provides rehabilitation services for people with substance use disorders. Some specialised services for Alcohol Use Disorder are provided by other rehabilitation providers in Bhutan, such as BIW and CPA.

Outpatient SUD treatment is a structured programme delivered in selected hospitals and through PEMA rehabilitation services. It is suitable for individuals who do not require residential rehabilitation or who are continuing care after completing residential treatment.

Residential rehabilitation typically lasts a minimum of three months. Outpatient programmes vary depending on individual needs and treatment plans.

Services include child protection, support for survivors of gender-based violence, clinical counselling, adoption and alternative care services, 24/7 helpline services, interim shelter services, rehabilitation services for substance use disorders, outpatient treatment, prison-based mental health services, and reintegration and aftercare services.

Mental health influences how people think, feel, relate to others and contribute to society. Investing in mental health strengthens resilience, productivity and social cohesion, and supports national development.

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.

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.

Reintegration support helps individuals return to family, school, work or community life after crisis or treatment. It may include follow-up counselling, case management and community-based support.