“Mental Health will have the National Priority it Deserves”
— Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen
The PEMA Approach
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
Response Services
Treatment and Rehabilitation
Reintergation and Aftercare
Advanced primary care services
Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus ut perspic iatis unde omnis iste perspiciatis ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus.
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.
Child Protection Services
Support for children in difficult circumstances, including those in conflict with the law, survivors of violence, and those affected by emergencies through comprehensive child protection services. These include safety planning, family-based interventions, child protection in emergencies, and specialized support during parental separation and child custody proceedings.
Peer Support Services
Ongoing recovery support through structured group sessions and shared lived experience. Peer support strengthens coping skills, motivation, and relapse prevention, and is integrated into hospitalbased and residential rehabilitation services.
Adoption Services
Support for domestic and intercountry adoption, guided by the Child Adoption Act of Bhutan 2012 and related rules, regulations, and guidelines. The child’s best interests guide every decision.
Call 1098 (24/7) – protection and psychosocial support
If in immediate danger, call 1010 (Royal Bhutan Police)
Email: helpline@thepema.gov.bt (support)
Email: enquiry@thepema.gov.bt (enquiries)
Also available via official social media channels.
What is the 1098 Helpline?
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 services.
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.
What is counselling?
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.
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.
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.
Common Questions
What is the 1098 Helpline?
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 services.
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.
What is counselling?
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.
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.
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.
