Dr. Sheetal Singh, the principal medical officer at St. Giles Hospital, has urged law enforcement officials to direct individuals exhibiting signs of mental illness found on the streets to appropriate medical facilities for evaluation and treatment. This plea was made during the launch of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, where Dr. Singh highlighted the frequent neglect of mental health care for patients arrested for behaviors linked to mental health conditions.
Dr. Singh expressed concern that such individuals are often charged and taken to court rather than receiving necessary psychiatric evaluations, medications, and counseling while incarcerated. She referred to the Mental Health Act 2010, emphasizing that police and ambulance personnel have the authority to transport individuals who appear to be struggling with mental health issues to healthcare facilities for proper assessment and intervention.
This initiative is particularly relevant given the rising trends in mental health issues associated with substance abuse in Fiji, as discussed in previous reports. Alarmingly, over 120 children under 18 have been diagnosed with mental health problems linked to drug use in recent years, and trends indicate no age group is immune to the effects of drug-related issues. The interconnectedness of mental health and substance misuse calls for a more nuanced approach to treatment that prioritizes healthcare over incarceration.
In related discussions, statistics indicate a worrying increase in admissions to St. Giles Hospital, with many patients suffering from substance-related mental health disorders. Effective referral and treatment systems are essential for addressing the root causes of these issues and ensuring that vulnerable individuals receive compassionate and appropriate care.
The call for collaboration between law enforcement and medical professionals serves as a hopeful step towards creating a supportive environment for those struggling with mental health and substance abuse. By prioritizing treatment over punishment, the community can help prevent further mental health crises and foster a more understanding society.
Leave a comment