Solomon Islands Opposition Leader Calls For Increased Mental Health Funding
by RNZ · SCOOPThe opposition leader in the Solomon Islands is calling for more funding for mental health amid rising case numbers.
The nation, with a population of almost 800,000, has limited mental health services, and in many provinces, such services are non-existent. The health sector faces significant challenges with dilapidated infrastructure and workforce shortages.
Matthew Wale said an increase in mental health cases reported by the head of psychiatry at Honiara's National Referral Hospital is "worrying".
In August, the country's director of primary healthcare Dr Rex Maukera told reporters in August the hospital had almost 3000 outpatient visits at its mental health clinic last year - nearly 300 of those were "new" cases.
Drug-related cases made up 25 percent of the total, highlighting the growing toll of substance abuse in the islands.
Others stem from stress disorders, natural disasters, family issues, unemployment and missed opportunities.
As well as a boost in mental health spending, Wale is calling for nationwide data collection, public awareness campaigns including in schools, and a review of the mental health act.
The Solomon Islands government launched its first-ever a mental health policy in 2023. This policy integrates mental health into primary care.
The health minister at the time said, "...mental health challenges affect all aspects of our lives, families, workplaces, and communities, impacting everyone".
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