ONDO GOVERNMENT TO EXPAND ACCESS TO SPECIALISED CARE–HEALTH COMMISSIONER AJAKA
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WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY:
ONDO GOVERNMENT TO EXPAND ACCESS TO SPECIALISED CARE–HEALTH COMMISSIONER AJAKA
As the world marks World Mental Health day 2023 today, , Ondo state commissioner for health, Dr Banji Awolowo Ajaka has called for increased partnership for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental health issues in the state
The commissioner disclosed this in his office while fielding questions from journalists to mark 2023 World mental health day tagged ” mental health is a universal human right”
Ajaka opined that mental health is an integral part of our overall health and wellbeing which allows us to cope with challenges of life, connect with others and thrive throughout life while saying it is vital and deserved to be recognized
He lamented that mental health was the least discussed and usually misdiagnosed in the African clime and this has continued to put pressure on the healthcare system.
He stated that that Ondo state government is working to develop strategies to expand access to specialized care and provide training to healtj care workers in all various hospitals and basic health centres to make mental health care accessible, available and affordable in all communities in the state.
He also hinted that the government is looking into expansion and equipping the neuro-psychiatric hospital in Oda road to further care for patients with mental health issues.
The commissioner stressed that he government of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has approved the recruitment of medical personnels in all areas of healthcare including mental health in all facilities in the 18 Local Government Areas in the state.
He advised the people of the state to shun drug abuse which he said is one of the causes of mental health issues especially among the youths.
In his words ” drug abuse is a major factor in our society today especially amongst our youths. If you have stressors in your life, abusing drug isn’t the solution, get help from appropriate quarters” share good practices such as socialising, getting a good night sleep, eating healthy meals and setting daily goals.
He therefore called for partnership for training of staff on mental health issues, diagnosis, treatment and prevention while appealing to individuals, groups, organisations to assist as government cannot do it alone
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