THE Ministry of Health and Medical (MHMS) together with its partners on 10th October celebrated World Mental Health Day with the theme: “Prioritising Mental Health in Workplace”.
Speaking at the event Dr. Nemia Bainivalu, Deputy Secretary Health Improvement (DSHI), Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) in his keynote address highlighted the pressing issues of mental health and importance of metal well-being in our workplaces.
“We must recognize that mental health and workplace are integrally intertwined. The workplace can either pose psychosocial risks to employees’ well-being or serve as a safe haven for promoting good mental health for both staff and clients”, said Dr. Bainivalu.
He stated the day is commemorated to remember all those facing mental health challenges from all walks of life, especially those who struggle to access services due to stigma, discrimination, or limited societal and family support. He reminded everyone as mental health is being focused in the workplace, we must not overlook the increasing trend of mental health issues among young people- the future leaders of this country.
He outlined according to global figures from 2019; 301 million people were reported to live with anxiety disorders, 280 million people live with depression, and 703,000 people died by suicide annually. Globally, it is estimated that 15% of working-age adults have a mental disorder at any given time.
He explained mental health is more than the absence of mental health conditions. It is a state of well-being that enables people to cope with life’s stresses, realize their abilities, learn and work effectively, and contribute to their communities.
“The workplace is not where we earn a living; it is a community, space and environment where we spend a significant portion of our time, interacting with colleagues, facing challenges, and striving for success. Despite its importance, mental health issues often remain hidden in the workplace, yet they profoundly impact our well-being, our families, and our communities. They also affect employee performance, productivity, leadership decision-making, and overall effectiveness of workplaces and institutions.
“It is essential to recognize that our mental health plays a crucial role in how people navigate through life and their experiences. It is therefore essential that we promote a culture that supports and values the mental well-being of every employee.
“Unfortunately, the pressures of work can take a toll on our mental well-being. Long hours, demanding workloads, and constant connectivity can contribute to stress, anxiety, and even burnout. Moreover, the stigma surrounding mental health issues often prevents individuals from seeking the support they need”, said Dr. Bainivalu.
Moreover, there is a growing awareness of the importance of mental health on workplaces. Organizations like corporate businesses, institutions, government and non-government organisations are beginning to understand that investing in the mental health of their employees is not just a moral obligation but also a sound business decision. Studies have shown that workplaces with a supportive mental health culture experience increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and improved employee morale, stated Dr. Bainivalu.
“The MHMS overarching National Health Strategic Plan (2022-2031) has recognised the need for mental health and aims to strengthen governance, improve systems, and ensure adequate resources for providing comprehensive health services. By doing so, we can create a more effective mental health system that meets the needs of all our citizens”, said Dr Bainivalu.
He further highlighted the MHMS in 2022 launched the Solomon Islands National Mental Health Policy. It covers 12 key actions areas that promote Mental Health services and provide opportunities for all stakeholders to collaborate and strengthen the partnership to support the health services. Also, the Role Delineation Policy also provides for minimum health service packages integrated into Primary Health Care (PHC) services, which include mental health services.
Therefore; he outlined some of the work MHMS is doing for Mental Health services that includes; Mental Health Treatment Bill- one of the health bills that we would like to see moving forward is the Mental Health Treatment bill, NRH Mental Health Facilities – the MHMS has secured fund to refurbish the Mental health facilities at the National Referral Hospital and are working towards the development of acute care at NRH and, Provincial Hospital – on a longer term it is in the plan for the provincial hospitals to have mental health facility attached.
Meanwhile, at the cerebrations other health partners such as the; Honiara City Council (HCC) Youth Representative, People with Disability Solomon Islands (PWDSI) CEO, SI Mental Health Foundation President and World Health Organization (WHO) representative have expressed the importance of Mental Health and urges everyone to work together to tackle mental health illnesses.
