It’s time we take mental health seriously

Every time there is a crisis or a disaster it tests our mental health resilience. The impact of COVID-19 on our mental health situation cannot be taken lightly. In fact it contributes to an array of social problems from domestic violence to anti-social behaviour.

While we have talked so much about the continuing problems of violence against women and children not much is said about what happens in the workplace.

We need to understand that mental wellbeing is one of the most valuable assets in businesses.

In New Zealand, The Mental Health Foundation recognises workplaces that prioritise mental health have better engagement, reduced absenteeism and higher productivity. People have improved wellbeing, greater morale and higher job satisfaction.

Mental health issues are linked to stress, anxiety, financial pressures and social isolation.

Fiji National University, Head of School of Medical Sciences, Associate Professor Dr Odille Chang says the next phase of COVID-19 is to deal with mental health issues.

Dr Chang says those with pre-existing mental health conditions and other marginalised populations are at particular risk of not dealing well with the current situation.

It may also expose underlying mental health conditions adding to the burden of health on our health system.

Prominent researchers have discussed the need for us to perceive mental health illnesses like any other illness. Our inability to do so, demonstrates the stigma that we in Fiji still put on these issues.

If we had a cold, we would not hesitate to go and see a doctor for medicine to help us overcome the illness. Similarly, with mental health illness, we should feel comfortable enough to go and see a specialist to help us through it.

This starts with being open and honest about our experiences. We need to feel supported and listened to when we bring these issues up. Stigma is based on misinformation, a lack of understanding and fear of the unknown.

Having more open discussions begins the process of understanding, opens our minds to various experiences and their impact on our wellbeing, and possible remedies to overcoming mental illness.

If you or a family member are feeling symptoms of mental health illness, do you feel comfortable speaking to someone close to you? Do you know who to reach out to for help? What is holding you back? These are important questions to ask as individuals and also as a society.

The Ministry of Health plays an important role in getting the message across to individuals and families.

Recognising symptoms, acknowledging the need to ask for help, accessing help and then recovery are clear areas for investigation.

This will take effort from everyone, just like we are doing with COVID-19.