As a mental health volunteer in Sri Lanka, you will gain valuable psychology experience while learning about mental health care in a developing country. This program is ideal for students studying psychology or mental health, offering opportunities to observe and engage with the healthcare system in a range of settings. Mental health issues in Sri Lanka have grown in recent years, but mental health services still face significant challenges.
Background to the Mental Health Program
Sri Lanka has one of the highest suicide rates globally, and mental health needs are increasing, especially in areas affected by the 2004 tsunami. Approximately 40% of people in these regions suffer from common mental disorders, and 3% have severe mental conditions. Historically, mental health was stigmatized in Sri Lanka, largely due to Buddhist beliefs about reincarnation. However, attitudes are changing, and mental health is being integrated into primary healthcare services.
Since the late 1970s, the National Council for Mental Health has been working to improve mental health care, and there has been progress, including the establishment of Medical Officers of Mental Health (MOMHs) in districts across the country. However, the mental health system still faces challenges such as overburdened staff, limited resources, and a shortage of medicines and community-based treatment options. There has been a growing focus on community education and support for individuals with prolonged mental illness, and mental health services are being integrated into both government and private healthcare.
Mental Health Volunteer Placement Opportunities
The mental health program offers a variety of placements to provide you with hands-on experience in different settings. These include:
Government Base Hospital
You will spend time observing mental health counsellors in a hospital setting, including in-patient and out-patient consultations. You may also have the opportunity to shadow speech therapists or attend art therapy sessions. Due to the busy nature of the doctors, they will try to translate and explain consultations, but you may need to be flexible.
National Institute of Mental Health
This is the largest mental health hospital in Sri Lanka. Volunteers will receive a presentation on mental health in Sri Lanka and have the opportunity to tour various departments, including psychogeriatrics and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). You will also learn about the hospital’s outpatient services and rehabilitation centres.
Rehabilitation Centre (Sithniwana)
Located about an hour from Ambalangoda, this centre focuses on reintegrating individuals with mental illnesses back into society. You will observe daily activities, participate in occupational therapies, and provide support for patients, including structured exercise classes and creative activities. You will also have the chance to interact with patients and learn about their experiences.
Workshops, Lectures & Seminars
Throughout your placement, you will participate in various workshops and seminars to deepen your understanding of mental health in Sri Lanka. These may include:
- Ayurvedic Medicine: Learn how this ancient healing system, which uses herbal remedies and dietary treatments, is applied to mental health care in Sri Lanka.
- Buddhism and Mental Health: Attend a lecture from a Buddhist monk to explore how Buddhist values and practices, such as meditation, are used to address mental health issues.
- Additional Workshops: Occasionally, you may attend workshops related to alcohol and drug abuse, suicide prevention, or other mental health topic.
Elective Opportunities
If you are a student, you may be able to join the mental health program as part of an elective or university placement. Please contact us for further information.
This program offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience in mental health care while learning about how cultural differences shape the approach to mental health in Sri Lanka.
University Students Only
The mental health & psychology program in Sri Lanka is exclusively available to university students currently studying psychology or a related mental health field. It is not open to individuals with no formal education in these areas (e.g., A-level students) or those without relevant academic exposure. Graduates are welcome to apply, but please note that this is a learning-focused program, so it may not be suitable for those seeking practical work experience at a professional level.
Project Duration
We recommend that participants join the program for 2-3 weeks. This duration allows you to gain a broad understanding of mental health care in Sri Lanka and experience most of the placements available within the program.
Internship Style Experience
Please be aware that the mental health program is designed as an internship experience. While you will gain valuable insights into the Sri Lankan mental health system, the program is primarily observational. Participants will shadow local healthcare professionals and engage in a learning exchange, gaining a deeper understanding of mental health practices in Sri Lanka. However, there will be limited hands-on involvement.
Not Suitable for Trained Professionals
This program is not intended for trained mental health professionals who wish to practice overseas. It is specifically designed for students studying psychology or mental health who want to learn about mental health care in a different cultural context.
Top Destination
Sri Lanka is often regarded as one of the best volunteer destinations due to the exceptional local support, great value for money, and the overall experience in Ambalangoda. The local team goes above and beyond to ensure that every volunteer has an unforgettable experience, which is reflected in the positive feedback received. This makes it an ideal choice for first-time travellers seeking extra support, a variety of organised weekend trips, and the opportunity to participate in meaningful local initiatives in an exotic setting.
Return Airport Transfer
Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist with arranging transfers to the airport or other destinations from the volunteer accommodation. It’s more flexible to make these arrangements once you’re in Sri Lanka, as travel plans can change, and you might be able to coordinate with others on similar flight schedules. The cost will vary depending on your transport method and final destination, and if you’re traveling with other participants, it can often be shared. We strongly advise against using public transport or ridesharing apps for your airport transfer, as while they may be cheaper, they are less convenient and pose additional safety risks.
Weekends
Weekends in Sri Lanka are free, allowing you to relax or explore the country. Most participants take this opportunity to travel, while others enjoy downtime at the volunteer accommodation. We provide a Sri Lanka Weekend Travel Guide with top tips for making the most of your weekends. Additionally, before you depart for Sri Lanka, you can sign up for one of our exciting weekend trips, including the Adventure Hill & Country Trip, the Cultural Triangle & Elephants Trip, and the Maldives Chill Out Trip. These trips run every month, giving you plenty of chances to join in. Your project work is from Monday to Friday, so you’ll have plenty of time to experience Sri Lanka’s beauty and culture.
Project Flexibility
This volunteer project operates in the mornings, giving you the opportunity to participate in teaching projects during the afternoon. A minimum commitment of one week is required for each project, and you can finalize these arrangements once you’re in Sri Lanka. There are no additional costs, and we always welcome extra support for the community-based projects.
