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When it comes to traditional culture, there are few things more central than food and drink. And in Bhutan, a small country nestled in the Himalayas, alcohol plays a particularly fascinating and important role. From welcoming guests to saying goodbye, alcohol is a part of many different social customs and rituals. The most common form of alcohol in Bhutan is called ara, which is a type of distilled liquor made from grains such as rice, wheat, or barley. Another popular beverage is singchang, which is a beer made from millet. But regardless of the specific type of alcohol, it's clear that these drinks hold great significance in Bhutanese society. For example, when an important visitor or lama arrives for an event or ritual, the host family or community will often greet them with a special offering of ara called su-chang. This gesture is called suwa, and it's a way of showing respect and hospitality to the guest. Once the guest is settled in, it's customary to offer them a drink to welcome them. This is called dong-chang, and it's seen as an important sign of courtesy and hospitality. Similarly, when guests bring gifts of food or other items to a family gathering or event, the host will often serve them a drink called log-chang as a sign of gratitude. Of course, alcohol is also often served in more social contexts. For example, it's common to serve alcohol with meals during festive and ceremonial occasions. This type of drink is called toh-chang and is meant to complement the food. After a cup of tea, guests might be offered a drink called ja-chang, and after a meal, it's customary to serve shel-chang to help "wash down" the food. But perhaps the most interesting use of alcohol in Bhutanese culture is the way it's used to say goodbye. When high-ranking guests or visitors leave, the host family or community will often see them off at a chosen point. There, both the hosts and guests will drink together for the last time in a ceremony called kel-chang. This is the point at which the guests will usually give a gift of cash to the host, and the host party will wave khadar scarves and sing a melancholic song until the guests are out of sight. While it's clear that alcohol is an important part of Bhutanese culture, it's worth noting that excessive drinking is frowned upon. In fact, Bhutan is known for its Gross National Happiness index, which is meant to prioritize the well-being and happiness of its citizens over economic growth. As such, the country takes a more holistic approach to alcohol consumption, focusing on the positive social and cultural aspects rather than promoting excessive drinking. So the next time you're in Bhutan, be sure to raise a glass of ara, singchang or bang chang in honor of the fascinating cultural traditions that these drinks are a part of. Cheers to Bhutan, and cheers to the role of alcohol in bringing people together!

Nestled in the lush and serene hills of Punakha District in Bhutan lies the Chimi Lhakhang, a quirky and enchanting Buddhist temple that is steeped in both history and mythology. This 500-year-old temple, built by the revered saint Drukpa Kunley (1455-1529), also known as the "Divine Madman," is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan. Chimi Lhakhang is a place where the traditional and the unconventional merge in perfect harmony. The temple built as a chorten on the site after Kunley's blessing, was later made into a temple by 14th Drukpa hierarch, Ngawang Choegyelin 1499. The temple is famous for its wooden phallus, which is said to have been brought from Tibet by Lama Kunley and is used to bless people who visit the temple on pilgrimage, particularly women seeking blessings to beget children. The tradition of blessing involves the temple priest striking pilgrims on the head with the phallus, which has been decorated with a silver handle. The story of Chimi Lhakhang begins with the arrival of the "Divine Madman" in Bhutan. Drukpa Kunley was a maverick saint who traveled across the Himalayas spreading his teachings of Buddhism in a unique and often outrageous manner. His unorthodox methods and humorous approach to spirituality made him a beloved figure in Bhutan, and his legacy continues to this day. Lama Kunley was said to have subdued a demon at the site where Chimi Lhakhang now stands, using his "magic thunderbolt of wisdom." The temple is located on a hillock that is said to resemble the breast of a woman, and the site is blessed with prayer flags that line the road from the tiny village of Yowakha to the temple. All houses in the village have paintings of phalluses on their exterior walls, making Chimi Lhakhang a truly unique destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. Visitors to Chimi Lhakhang can experience the true essence of Bhutanese culture and spirituality. A 20-minute walk through the lush agricultural fields of mustard and rice leads to the hillock where the temple is situated, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and soak in the tranquil surroundings. The temple is also home to intricate wall paintings, colorful frescoes, and Buddhist artifacts that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan. In conclusion, Chimi Lhakhang is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the unique blend of Bhutanese culture, history, and spirituality. The temple is a testament to the unconventional and often humorous approach of the "Divine Madman" to spirituality and serves as a reminder that there are many paths to enlightenment. So, if you're in Bhutan, be sure to take a pilgrimage to Chimi Lhakhang and embrace the divine madness for yourself!

Feature image: སྤ་རོ་སྟག་ཚང་། Paro Taktsang, 1900’s (via Bonhams)

Bhutanese culture is embodied by the thousands of monks who call Bhutan home and live their lives dedicated to spiritual practice and study. According to the Bhutanese government, there are over 8 major monasteries and approximately 200 smaller monasteries and nunneries, where over 12,000 monks and 5,000 nuns monks in Bhutan, split between monasteries and hermitages scattered across the country's diverse landscape. Despite the abundance of technology and modernization in the world today, the Bhutanese have managed to maintain their traditional way of life, and the role of the monk remains an important part of this culture. Monks in Bhutan live simple lives, dedicating themselves to meditation, study, and serving their communities. They rise early, often at 4:30 in the morning, to begin their daily prayers and rituals. The day is filled with study, manual labor, and communal activities, all of which are performed with mindfulness and a focus on the present moment. One of the most fascinating aspects of Bhutanese monk life is the tradition of debating. Monks engage in intense philosophical debates, using logic and wit to explore the complexities of Buddhist teachings. This is not just a demonstration of their intellectual prowess, but also an opportunity for them to deepen their understanding of the teachings and apply them to their daily lives. Living in such close quarters with one another also fosters a strong sense of community among the monks. They support each other in their spiritual pursuits, sharing meals, practicing together, and providing encouragement when needed. It is a way of life that emphasizes compassion, generosity, and selflessness. The monks in Bhutan are also deeply connected to their communities, serving as spiritual leaders and teachers. They offer guidance and support to laypeople, helping them to navigate the challenges of daily life and find peace and happiness. Despite the simplicity of their lives, Bhutanese monks are a powerful reminder of the importance of spiritual pursuits and the impact they can have on individuals and communities. They are a shining example of the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan and the significance of the Buddhist way of life in the modern world.

There's more to Bhutan than just its quirky name - it's a country deeply rooted in Buddhism and steeped in tradition. Buddhism arrived in Bhutan in the 7th century, brought by the Vajra master Guru Rinpoche (also known as Padmasambhava). He is credited with establishing Buddhism as the main religion in Bhutan and is revered as a second Buddha by Bhutanese Buddhists. The introduction of Buddhism had a profound impact on Bhutanese society and culture, and to this day, the influence of the religion can be seen everywhere from the monasteries and temples dotted throughout the country, to the colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Bhutan is a predominantly Buddhist country, with the majority of the population following the Drukpa Kagyu sect. The Drukpa Kagyu sect is characterized by its emphasis on the practice of tantric Buddhism, and its monasteries are known for their colorful and elaborate festivals and dances. However, Bhutan also has a thriving Nyingma sect, which is known for its more contemplative approach to Buddhism. The Bhutanese people are deeply spiritual and their daily lives are interwoven with Buddhist beliefs and practices. Prayer and offering rituals are a part of daily life, and the country's many monasteries serve as important centers for religious study and meditation. Bhutanese monks, known as lamas, are highly respected members of society and play a key role in maintaining Bhutan's religious heritage. One of the most unique and fascinating aspects of Buddhism in Bhutan is the country's tradition of Tsechu festivals. Tsechus are religious festivals held annually in the monasteries and temples throughout Bhutan, and they serve as an opportunity for people to come together to celebrate, pray, and participate in religious dances. These festivals are a celebration of the teachings of Buddha and are marked by colorful masks, intricate costumes, and lively music and dancing. In conclusion, Buddhism is an integral part of Bhutanese society and culture, and it imbues the country with a unique and enchanting atmosphere that's impossible to find anywhere else in the world. Whether you're visiting a historic temple, watching a Tsechu festival, or simply chatting with a friendly local, the influence of Buddhism is sure to touch your heart and soul.

Ladies and Gentlemen, hold onto your sides, because Bhutan has some of the funniest comedy actors that will make you laugh until you cry! Let's take a closer look at these top 5 Bhutanese comedians who have had us in stitches for years: Phurba Thinley - The King of Bhutanese Comedy Phurba Thinley is a household name in Bhutan, having acted in 59 Bhutanese films. He is a multiple award-winning actor, having won several awards for his comedic roles in movies such as "Sha Dha Simo," "Sem Gi Damtsi," and "Phurba Thinlay." Phurba Thinley is known for his unique style of humor that combines satire and wit, making him one of the most beloved actors in Bhutan. Gyem Tshering - The Giggler Gyem Tshering is another popular comedy actor from Bhutan who has acted in 31 Bhutanese films. He has a natural talent for humor, which he displays in movies such as "Zhana Wangchug," "Udumvara," and "Finding Phurba Thinley." With his quick wit and impeccable timing, Gyem Tshering is often compared to the late Robin Williams, and he has won the hearts of audiences both in Bhutan and beyond. Choney Dorji (Horgola) - Mr. Elastic face Choney Dorji, also known as Horgola, is a Bhutanese actor who has worked in 10 Bhutanese films. He has a distinctive style of humor that is inspired by Jim Carrey, and he has entertained audiences with his antics in movies such as "Fish Heart" and "Sertobb." With his energetic performance and natural comic timing, Choney Dorji is sure to bring a smile to your face. Gyem Dorji - The Chuckle Monster Gyem Dorji is a seasoned Bhutanese actor who has worked in 39 Bhutanese films. He is a multiple award-winning actor, having won several awards for his comedic roles in movies such as "Ata Yongba" and "Sem Gawai Tasha." With his unique style of humor and impeccable acting skills, Gyem Dorji is considered to be one of the best comedy actors in Bhutan. Gyem Dorji (Dasho) - The Wild Child Gyem Dorji is a Bhutanese actor who has worked in 28 Bhutanese films. He is known for his light-hearted humor and has won several awards for his comedic roles in movies such as "Pot of Gold" and "Drukdra Lingpai Tashi." With his distinctive style of humor that is reminiscent of Adam Sandler, Gyem Dorji is a popular figure in Bhutanese cinema. In conclusion, Bhutan has a rich tradition of comedy, and these five actors are just a few of the talented performers who have entertained audiences with their wit and humor. Whether you're a fan of Bhutanese cinema or simply looking for a good laugh, these actors are sure to bring a smile to your face and make you appreciate the art of comedy in the Himalayas. So, what are you waiting for? Pop some popcorn and get ready for a journey through the hilarious side of Bhutanese cinema! Have you seen any Bhutanese comedy films? Which one was your favorite? What do you think makes Bhutanese comedy films unique? Comment below if you have anything interesting to share or if we’ve missed any fun facts about these Bhutanese superstars.

Bhutan, known for its stunning scenery, friendly people and rich culture, has also been making a mark in the world of cinema. The Bhutanese film industry, though still in its early stages, is creating waves with its unique storytelling and captivating visuals. In this article, we delve into the world of Bhutanese cinema, exploring its history, the cultural significance of its films, and some must-watch movies. A Brief History of Bhutanese Cinema Bhutan's entry into the world of cinema began in the late 1980s, with the government's aim to promote Bhutanese culture and values through film. The first Bhutanese film, "Gasa Lamai Singye", was produced in 1989 by Director Ugyen Dorji, and since then, the industry has grown and developed into what it is today. Over the years, Bhutanese films have won several awards and accolades at international film festivals, including the Venice Film Festival, Busan International Film Festival, and more. The Cultural Significance of Bhutanese Films Bhutanese films are not just mere entertainment; they carry a deep cultural significance that reflects the country's rich heritage and values. The films often depict the traditional way of life, the customs and beliefs of Bhutanese society, and the unique challenges faced by its people. The films also showcase the country's stunning landscapes and natural beauty, making them a visual treat for audiences. Must-Watch Bhutanese Films "The Cup" (1999) - Directed by Khyentse Norbu, this film is about two young novice monks who are sent to India to watch the World Cup soccer finals. The film offers a unique glimpse into Bhutanese culture and the role of religion in society. "Travelers and Magicians" (2003) - Directed by Khyentse Norbu, this film follows the journey of a young man who embarks on a journey through Bhutan in search of a better life. The film showcases the stunning landscapes of Bhutan and is a meditation on the meaning of happiness and contentment. "Hema Hema: Sing Me a Song While I Wait" (2016) - Directed by Khyentse Norbu, this film is a mystical, surrealistic tale about a masked dance festival in Bhutan. The film explores themes of identity, spirituality, and the nature of reality. "Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom" (2019) Directed by Pawo Choyning Dorji, film about a teacher named Ugyen who is assigned to teach in a remote mountain village in Bhutan, but eventually becomes beloved by the children and learns to sing a traditional song. The film was a nominee for Best International Feature Film at the 94th Academy Awards and premiered at the BFI London Film Festival. Bhutanese cinema is still in its early stages, but its impact is far-reaching. The films offer a unique window into Bhutanese culture and values, and are a must-watch for anyone interested in the country and its people. Questions to consider: How do Bhutanese films reflect the country's rich heritage and values? How have Bhutanese films evolved over the years? What makes Bhutanese films unique compared to other regional cinemas?

Introduction: Bhutan was the last country to introduce television. The introduction of television in Bhutan in 1999 marked a major turning point in the country's history, bringing about both positive and negative changes. In this article, we will examine Bhutan's journey with television, exploring its effects on the country's culture and society, and the challenges of balancing modernization with cultural preservation. Bhutan's Cultural Roots: Bhutan has a rich cultural heritage, rooted in Buddhism and the ancient traditions of the Himalayas. For centuries, Bhutan remained isolated from the outside world, preserving its unique cultural heritage. Despite modernization in recent decades, Bhutan still holds tight to its cultural traditions and beliefs. The Arrival of Television: In June 1999, Bhutan lifted its ban on television, becoming the last country in the world to introduce the medium. With the arrival of 46 cable channels, Bhutanese society was exposed to a new world, one that was incompatible with their traditional culture. This led to concerns about the potential negative impact of television on Bhutan's cultural heritage. Positive Impacts of Television: Despite the concerns, television has also brought about many positive changes in Bhutan. It has played a significant role in educating the public, providing access to information and new ideas. Television has also put Bhutan on the world map, bringing attention to the country and its unique culture. Negative Impacts of Television: However, the introduction of television has also had negative impacts on Bhutanese society. A 2002 crime wave was attributed to the influence of television, which introduced new ideas and values that were not in line with Bhutanese culture. The impact of television on Bhutanese society raises questions about the balance between modernization and cultural preservation. Balancing Modernization and Cultural Preservation: The challenge for Bhutan is to find a balance between modernization and cultural preservation. The government has implemented measures to ensure that Bhutanese culture is not lost in the modernization process. For example, the government requires all television programs to be reviewed for content before being broadcasted, ensuring that the programs are in line with Bhutanese values. Conclusion: Television has had a profound impact on Bhutanese society and culture, bringing about both positive and negative changes. The challenge for Bhutan is to balance modernization with cultural preservation, ensuring that Bhutan's unique heritage is not lost in the process. As Bhutan continues to develop and evolve, it will be interesting to see how it navigates the challenges of balancing modernization and cultural preservation. Questions to Consider: What are some of the positive and negative impacts of television on Bhutanese society and culture? What measures has the government taken to balance modernization and cultural preservation in Bhutan? What challenges does Bhutan face in balancing modernization and cultural preservation in the future?

As you may know, a group of women from Drupkhang village of Lumang Gewog in Trashigang began reviving the practice of weaving using nettle plant seven years ago. However, the program has not yielded the expected outcome, as the women's group is finding it difficult to find a market for their products. You may be wondering why the nettle plant is so important to these women. The nettle plant is harvested around mid-year in order to obtain the best quality fiber. The process of extracting the fiber is labor-intensive, as the women must first peel the bark of the plant and soak it in water. This water is then boiled in ash water, and the bark is beaten until all dirt and cover is removed. The bark is then hung to dry in the sun, and once it is dried, the women begin extracting fiber using traditional methods. Despite their efforts, the group has been struggling to find a market for their products. The reason for this is that extracting yarn using the traditional method is labor-intensive, and the quality of yarn extracted using the old spinning tool is not up to par. This affects the marketing of their products, and the women fear that their age-old tradition of weaving using nettle plant will vanish once again despite the initiation of the revival program. To address this marketing issue, the Trashigang District Administration has taken steps to support the women's group. Recently, they organized a two-week-long natural dying training, where the group members learned to prepare yarns of different colors. This will not only allow the women to weave more using diverse colors, but it will also make their products more appealing to potential buyers. In addition to this training, officials from Trashigang have said that they will be purchasing a spinning machine with support from the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment. This machine will make the process of extracting fiber more efficient, and the quality of yarn will improve. The machine is expected to arrive within three months, and the women's group will have to bear 20% of the cost. The district has also opened a local product outlet in Trashigang town last month, which will serve as a platform for the women's group to sell their products. These actions taken by the Trashigang District Administration will not only help the women's group revive their tradition of weaving using nettle plant, but it will also help them to find a market for their products and make a sustainable livelihood. As you can see, the women's group is facing a difficult challenge in trying to revive their traditional craft. However, with the support of the Trashigang District Administration and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment, they are making progress in finding a market for their products and making their tradition sustainable. (source: BBS 23) Questions: -What is the traditional method of extracting nettle plant fiber? -Why is the nettle plant so important to these women? -What steps is the Trashigang District Administration taking to support the women's group? -What is the outcome of the natural dying training? -What is the role of the spinning machine in reviving the tradition of nettle plant fiber weaving? -What is the impact of the local product outlet on the women's group?

One of the most striking aspects of Bhutanese culture is the strong presence of Vajrayana Buddhism, which has been the state religion for centuries. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of Vajrayana Buddhism in Bhutan, exploring its origins, practices, and impact on the culture and society of this small Himalayan kingdom. Vajrayana Buddhism, also known as "Tantra," is a branch of Buddhism that developed in India and spread to Tibet, Bhutan, and other parts of the Himalayas. It is characterized by a focus on ritual and meditation practices that aim to swiftly achieve enlightenment and attain the state of a buddha. Vajrayana Buddhism in Bhutan is deeply intertwined with the country's history, culture, and society, and has played a significant role in shaping Bhutan's unique identity. One of the most striking aspects of Vajrayana Buddhism in Bhutan is the intricate and elaborate ritual practices that are performed by monks and lay practitioners alike. These rituals, which are often accompanied by music, dance, and colorful costumes, are designed to invoke the blessings of the buddhas and bodhisattvas and to purify the mind and body. Visitors to Bhutan will often have the opportunity to witness these rituals firsthand, and they are truly a sight to behold. Another important aspect of Vajrayana Buddhism in Bhutan is the emphasis on sacred art. Bhutan is home to numerous monasteries and temples, many of which are adorned with intricate frescoes, statues, and other works of art that depict the buddhas and bodhisattvas, as well as other figures from Buddhist mythology. These works of art serve both a religious and a cultural function, as they help to preserve Bhutan's rich Buddhist heritage and provide a visual representation of the teachings of the Buddha. Perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects of Vajrayana Buddhism in Bhutan is the close relationship between the monastic community and the lay population. In Bhutan, as in many other parts of the Himalayas, the monasteries play an important role in the community, serving as centers of learning, worship, and social welfare. Monks and nuns are highly respected members of society, and it is not uncommon for families to send one of their sons to become a monk. As you can see, Vajrayana Buddhism in Bhutan is a rich and complex tradition that encompasses a wide range of practices and beliefs. It is a tradition that is deeply ingrained in the culture and society of Bhutan, and one that continues to shape the country in meaningful ways. If you are interested in learning more about Vajrayana Buddhism in Bhutan, consider visiting the country and exploring its monasteries and temples, participating in its rituals and ceremonies, and immersing yourself in its rich culture and history. Some questions to ponder: How does Vajrayana Buddhism in Bhutan compare to other forms of Buddhism? How has Vajrayana Buddhism shaped Bhutanese culture and society? What role do monasteries play in Bhutanese society? How is Vajrayana Buddhism being transmitted and preserved in Bhutan today?

Marriages in Buddhist regions of Asia have historically been secular unions without the blessing of the Buddhist clergy. However, some people believe that religious endorsements are necessary for this union. Bhutan, having a majority of Buddhist practitioners, definitely prefers the presence of monks and nuns who recite prayers during wedding ceremonies. A picture of a groom and bride in a traditional Bhutanese wedding Source: https://www.gobhutantours.com/bhutanese-traditional-wedding-marriage-customs/ How does it begin? Before the ceremony begins, the bride and groom are neatly dressed in vibrant colors of ghos and kiras such as red and golden. The monks chant sacred phrases or mantras and light incense to the regional deities early in the morning on the auspicious day chosen for the marriage ceremony. This opening ritual is referred to as "Labsang." In the majority of Bhutanese ceremonies, the local deities are significant because, in order to obtain their blessings, people must first seek their approval. To do this, they try to appease the local deities by chanting mantras and making offerings. It is said that if the local deities are happy, the ceremony was successful, and the deities will deliver happiness, prosperity, and good health to the people who were seeking their blessings. Illuminating the room Once the Lhabsang is over, butter lamps are lit to respect the deities. Lighting a butter lamp is also a symbolic way to chase away the darkness from one's life. Then, the bride and groom are required to prostrate six times. After lighting the butter lamps, the Head Lama, or Rimpoche, is prayed to three times at the great alter. After that, the Thrisor, which is performed to purify and cleanse our body, speech, intellect, and—most importantly—soul, is performed by the monks and the Head Lama. Exchange of rings Following the offering of locally brewed alcohol to the gods and deities, the bride and groom are given the remaining liquor from the same bowl. The term "Changphoed" refers to this custom. This represents the commitment between couples to live their entire lives together. The wedding rings are then exchanged. The Head Lama bestows his blessing on the bride and groom with a ritual called the "Tshephamey choko," a tradition for a long life and prosperous marriage. During the Zhugdrey Phunsum Tshogpa, a rite that comes after the Tsehphamey choko, food and fruits are served. Local deities are served first, followed by all those present at the ritual. It is not appropriate to discard or refuse certain fruits and meals. Hence, people are required take it in modest amounts so that they are not wasted. How it ends The final part of the wedding ceremony, known as Dhar Naynga, involves the lamas giving the bride and groom scarves in five different colors. These bright scarves are presented with best wishes for a long, happy, and wealthy marriage. Thereafter, the newlyweds get scarves from the members of their family, friends, and visitors, along with congratulatory words and wishes such as "Tashi delek." When all the above-mentioned rituals are complete, every guest is served with food that consists of a variety of Bhutanese dishes including rice, meat and vegetables items.The party is often held during the day and can extend till the night. The present Although the traditional wedding ceremonies in Bhutan have their own charm, people in Bhutan nowadays also prefer smaller events with only their family members attending the ceremony. Sometimes they also just prefer getting legally married in local courtrooms. A fun fact about marriages in Bhutan is that polygamy and polyandry among Bhutanese citizens are legal up to four marriages. In fact, the fourth king of Bhutan is married to four different women.

Mental well-being is one of the nine domains of Gross National Happiness in Bhutan, yet the lack of understanding about mental health issues has resulted in stigma, discrimination, and even trauma that Bhutanese people suffer. In this article, we will delve into the state of mental health in Bhutan, the common disorders that Bhutanese people face, and ways to improve the mental health system in the country. First, let's take a look at the prevalence of mental health issues in Bhutan. According to a report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the biggest predictors of mental illness in the developing world are physical health and poverty levels. A recent meta-analysis of worldwide mental health rates estimates that one in four people in the world has depression and anxiety. In Bhutan, the most common mental health problem that people seek help for is anxiety disorders, followed by substance abuse and depression. But why do so many Bhutanese people suffer from mental health issues? One of the major reasons is the lack of understanding and awareness about mental health. Many Bhutanese people tend to think that physical health is more important than mental health and do not seek professional help when in distress. Additionally, the cultural and societal stigma surrounding mental health prevents many people from seeking help and leads to discrimination and trauma. So, what can be done to improve the state of mental health in Bhutan? One of the key solutions is to increase access to mental health services. Currently, there are only a limited number of clinical counsellors and rehabilitation facilities in Bhutan, which makes it difficult for people living in remote areas to access mental health services. There is a need to increase the number of clinical counsellors in each dzongkhag and to provide training for health care workers to understand the role of clinical counsellors in hospitals and how to spot and refer mental health problems. Another important solution is to address addiction in a trauma-informed way. According to research, a combination of counselling and medication is usually necessary for recovery from a mental health disorder. However, current laws in Bhutan criminalize substance use and do not offer treatment for the underlying trauma that leads to addiction. Instead, there needs to be a shift towards offering treatment for addiction before penalizing individuals. Lastly, there is a need for laws around the confidentiality of medical information to protect the emotional safety of clients. Effective counselling is not possible without emotional safety, which is built on confidentiality. There needs to be consequences, accountability, and regulations in place to ensure that the confidentiality of clients is protected. In conclusion, mental health is an important issue that needs to be addressed in Bhutan. By increasing access to mental health services, addressing addiction in a trauma-informed way, and protecting the confidentiality of clients, we can work towards breaking the stigma and improving the mental health of Bhutanese people. Key Takeaways: Mental health is an important issue in Bhutan that needs to be addressed The most common mental health problems faced by Bhutanese people are anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and depression The lack of understanding and awareness about mental health and societal stigma prevent many people from seeking help Improving the mental health system in Bhutan requires increasing access to mental health services, addressing addiction in a trauma-informed way, and protecting the confidentiality of clients By breaking the stigma, we can work towards improving the mental health of Bhutanese people.