Support those with mental health issues, Sibu folks advised
SIBU: Members of the public here need to provide support for individuals with mental health issues, so as to help lessen the burden of the healthcare workers at Sibu Hospital.
In making this appeal, Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Sarawak Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee has pointed out that psychiatrists, medical officers and nurses are currently dealing with the increasing number of patients in the hospital’s psychiatric ward.
“I have been informed that currently, Sibu Hospital has six psychiatrists. Based on what I understand (from Sibu Hospital head psychiatrist Dr Wong Siong Teck) they require another two, given the current high workloads.
“On top of that, the psychiatrists in Sibu Hospital are also travelling to cover outskirts hospitals like those in Kapit and Kanowit – except Sarikei, which has its own psychiatrists, and Mukah, which is served by psychiatrists from Bintulu Hospital.
“Additionally, the medical officers are rather ‘fluid’ as they can go further studies or be posted to other places,” he told reporters at a Hari Raya open house event at Sibu Hospital’s psychiatric ward.
The Nangka assemblyman also advised the public to play their part by not stigmatising those with mental health issues, as this could prevent them from seeking help.
“It is pivotal for people to understand that this form of illness requires a lot of emotional and family support. Stigmatising them keeps them further away from getting proper help and services, and thus, hindering the necessary intervention,” he said.
At the event, Dr Annuar donated 40 bedding pillows to the psychiatric ward.
Among those present were Sibu Hospital director Dr Nanthakumar Thirunavukkarasu and chairman of the psychiatric ward’s board of visitors Peter Lau.