A Fijian academic has warned that mental health issues caused by the Covid-19 pandemic are likely to be the next threat to the country.
Suva Harbour the capital of Fiji. Photo: RNZ Pacific/ Koroi Hawkins
Dr William May, is the dean of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at the Fiji National University, he said while the curfews and other Covid-19 restrictions continue to be in place, telehealth initiatives are necessary.
Handing over equipment to the local psychiatric hospital last week, Dr May said the resources will ensure that services continue to be delivered.
And he's calling for the upscaling of mental health services due to an increase in stress being suffered by Fijians.
"Through the Fiji National University, we can explore how we can deliver post-Covid and ensure that mental health services continue to be offered where it's needed the most. Mental health issues in the country will probably increase. In my view, post-pandemic."
Dr William May said the initiative provides an opportunity to remodel and restructure mental health services from the "new normal".
Dr William May. Photo: Supplied/FNU
Last Friday, the university handed over $US4,700 worth of equipment to the St Giles Hospital in Suva.
Hospital head Dr Kiran Gaikward said the equipment would help St Giles upgrade staff skills.
Dr Gaikward said changes were made in how patients were being treated during the pandemic.
"So digitalization is basically to avoid patients coming to the hospital if they can be treated at their community," he said.
"Even the mental health law says the patients should be treated in their community so digitization will help us to achieve this target."
Photo: RNZ Pacific/ Koroi Hawkins
Where to get help:
If you or a loved one thinks they might be developing a mental illness, there are places to go for help.
Community Mental Health Teams - in each Division of Fiji. These teams are responsible for coordinating care of all clients of Mental Health Services. After hours, call 3381 399 leave a message, and you will be contacted the next morning.
The Youth Champs 4 Mental Health also on Facebook offers advocacy and supports young people who are distressed.
