The family unit plays a crucial role in providing essential support for individuals living with HIV who require mental health assistance, according to Patrick Morgam, CEO of Empower Pacific Fiji. He made this statement in light of concerns about families who distance themselves from relatives diagnosed with HIV, sometimes even avoiding visits to them in the hospital.
Morgam emphasized that family support is critical for the well-being of these patients, who are already dealing with the trauma associated with their diagnosis. He noted that when families overlook or ignore their loved ones, it adds additional stress to the individuals suffering from the illness. This lack of support can exacerbate their mental health issues, potentially leading to greater instability and further complications.
Empower Pacific Fiji plans to release a statement outlining the counseling services available to HIV patients and the number of individuals accessing these services. Additionally, Dr. Rachel Devi, Head of Family Health at the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the ministry and various civil society organizations.
“We have partnered with NGO organizations, significantly training them to assist with testing onsite,” Dr. Devi explained. She mentioned organizations like Medical Services Pacific and university students who are also trained to conduct on-site testing as part of community outreach programs. This collaborative approach is deemed essential for effectively reaching different populations and addressing HIV-related health issues across society.