Ms. Mina Kashiwabara, Noncommunicable disease, World Health Organization, Division of Pacific Technical Support, Suva, Fiji delivered WHO remarks at the launch event.
WHO congratulates the SI Government and MHMS for the Historical launch of Mental Health Policy
World Health Organization (WHO) Solomon Islands Office on 26th July 2023 congratulated the Solomon Islands (SI) Government and Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) for its commitment to integrate mental health services into primary care.
Ms. Mina Kashiwabara, Noncommunicable disease, World Health Organization, Division of Pacific Technical Support, Suva, Fiji speaking on behalf of the WHO Country Representative said, “There is no health without mental health.”
She said in 1948 WHO, the WHO Constitution defined health as “A state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence the disease or infirmity”.
“WHO congratulates the Government of Solomon Islands and Ministry of Health and Medical Services for its commitment to integrate mental health services into primary care. WHO further congratulates Solomon Islands for ratifying the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability (CRPD) on 22nd, June 2023”, said Ms. Kashiwabara.
She said good mental health is integral to the well-being of everyone. Promoting and protecting mental health is also critical to a well-functioning society.
She explained the Regional Framework for the Future of Mental Health in the Western Pacific 2023-2030 is envisioned to support Member States.
- In designing national strategies, plans, and policies on mental health,
- To strengthen political advocacy for greater resources and commitment, 3. To encourage coordination and collaboration among partners to build back better and fairer, and
- Creating mental health systems that are more resilient for the future.
“During COVID-19 the staff burnout has been seen globally; we’ve also seen increased rates of domestic violence and child protection needs which affected mental health of individuals, families, and communities.
“The National Mental Health Policy is an opportunity to address mental health issues for all Solomon Islanders. It uses an evidence-based systems approach built on previous achievements. It addresses common challenges seen nationally, regionally and locally”, said Ms. Kashiwabara.
Therefore, she said Solomon Islands has all key Policies in place, under the umbrella of the National Health Strategic Plan 2022-2031, National Inclusive Development Policy 2023-2031 and Rehabilitation Strategic Plan 2022-2031.
“We will work hand-in-hand with you to support implementation of the National Mental Health Policy, in particular to strengthen mental health services, community awareness and empowerment”, Ms. Kashiwabara said. Ends//…
-MHMS Press