In Bangladesh, over 90% of individuals with mental health disorders do not receive treatment due to stigma, misconceptions, and societal pressures, especially in rural areas where 75% of the population lives. Mental illness is often linked to supernatural beliefs, delaying proper treatment. The country faces a severe shortage of mental health professionals, with only about 260 psychiatrists and 700 psychologists, translating to 0.073 professionals per 100,000 people, far below global standards. The mental health budget is less than 0.5% of the national health budget.

According to the WHO and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), 17% of adults and 14.7% of children (aged 7-17) suffer from mental health disorders, with rising rates. Suicide remains a significant issue, with a national rate of 9.7 per 100,000 people. Among adolescent girls aged 15-19, suicide is the leading cause of death, accounting for 18.2% of fatalities in this group.

Let’s Talk Mental Health (LTMH) has developed and implemented a series of holistic programs to tackle the mental health challenges faced by individuals and communities across Bangladesh. Our initiatives focus on promoting awareness, providing holistic care, and equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their mental well-being. Each program is designed not only to address the immediate mental health needs but also to build long-term capacity within communities, ensuring sustainable mental health support systems without dependence on external donors. LTMH works through its key initiatives in schools, universities, and factories, empowering educators, parents, and grassroots workers to become advocates of mental wellness, helping to foster resilient and self-sustaining communities.