The Mask We Refuse to Remove: Malta’s Mental Health Taboo

Imagine walking down Republic Street, Malta’s bustling thoroughfare, on a sunny afternoon. You’re surrounded by the hum of chatter, the clink of glasses in cafes, and the laughter of children playing. Yet, hidden behind many of those smiles, there’s a story of struggle, of a mask that’s been worn for too long. We’re talking about mental health, a topic that’s often whispered about in Malta, if spoken of at all.

Breaking the Silence

Malta, like many places, has a mental health taboo. It’s a topic that’s often swept under the rug, a problem that’s ‘not talked about’. But it’s high time we start discussing it openly. According to the Mental Health Foundation, one in four people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year. While Malta doesn’t have official statistics, it’s safe to assume the figure isn’t much different.

Meet Maria, a 35-year-old marketing professional from Birkirkara. She’s been living with depression for over a decade. “I’ve always been good at wearing a mask,” she says, “Smiling at work, laughing with friends, but inside, I was crumbling.” Maria’s story is not unique. Many Maltese are battling mental health issues, yet the stigma prevents them from seeking help or even talking about it.

Stigma: The Elephant in the Room

Stigma is the main barrier to mental health treatment in Malta. It’s the reason why people like Maria suffer in silence. “I was terrified of what people would think if they found out,” she admits. “Mental health is still seen as a sign of weakness here. People think you’re attention-seeking or just being dramatic.”

Dr. Marc Camilleri, a psychiatrist at Mater Dei Hospital, agrees. “Stigma is deeply ingrained in our society. People with mental health problems are often seen as ‘crazy’ or ‘dangerous’. This leads to fear and misunderstanding, making it harder for people to seek help.”

Light at the End of the Tunnel

Despite the challenges, there’s a growing movement in Malta to break the silence around mental health. Organizations like Richmond Foundation and Empower are leading the charge, providing support and raising awareness. The government has also shown commitment, investing in mental health services and launching campaigns like ‘It’s Okay Not to Be Okay’.

Maria, now in recovery, is one of many who are speaking out. “I’m tired of hiding,” she says. “I want people to know that mental health is just as important as physical health. It’s okay not to be okay.”

And it seems Malta is ready to listen. A recent survey by the Malta Chamber of Psychologists found that 70% of respondents believed mental health should be given more importance. It’s a small step, but a significant one.

So, let’s start talking about mental health. Let’s start listening to each other. Let’s start removing the masks we’ve been wearing for too long. Because it’s okay not to be okay. And that’s okay.