DILI, 19 october 2023 (TATOLI) – The Ministry of Health (MoH) plans to train Timorese psychologists in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support to provide comprehensive and quality mental health and psychosocial services to Timorese people.
The Minister of Health, Elia dos Reis Amaral, said that capacity building and training designed specifically for Timorese psychologists will help them to correctly diagnose and treat mental and nervous disorders in the country.
From january to september, the Guido Valadares National Hospital (HNGV) registered more than 80 cases of mental illness.
In addition, the local NGO Pradet has so far recorded more than 120 people with mental illness living on the streets.
“The Ministry of Health had planned to train our psychologists through Human Capital Development Fund (FDCH) so that they can offer adequate treatment to Timorese with mental illnesses,” Elia told reporters after the meeting of the Council of Ministers at the Government Palace, on wednesday.
Elia added that the same capacity building and training will also be carried out for all doctors throughout Timor-Leste in order to provide adequate medical treatment to patients.
On the occasion of the celebration of the World Mental Health Day, Arvind Mathur, WHO Representative to Timor-Leste, called for the recognition of mental health as a universal human right.
“On this World Mental Health Day, we are reminded of the profound truth that there is no health without mental health. The World Health Organization (WHO) has aptly defined mental health as a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community. This definition emphasizes that mental health is a fundamental human right that must be upheld for all,” said Mathur.
One billion people globally, or one in every eight people live with a mental health condition. Depression ranks among the leading causes of disability, and suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds.
“Preliminary data from the psychiatric department of the HNGV hospital in Dili in 2020 paints a concerning picture, with significant percentages of patients presenting with schizophrenia (29%), depression (18%), and suicidal tendencies (18%). Similar trends are observed nationally. Past surveys conducted in schools have also found high prevalence of suicidal ideation among children, which is extremely concerning. These figures only scratch the surface of the true extent of mental health challenges in the country,” According to Mathur.
The WHO is committed to supporting the Ministry of Health and collaborating with other partners to provide comprehensive and quality mental health and psychosocial services to the Timorese people.
“Frontline staff, including doctors and nurses, have been trained in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support, playing a vital role in identifying signs of mental distress. Awareness materials have been developed and adapted to the Tetum language to promote mental health awareness within communities,” Mathur added.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
