Research will be conducted on the epidemiology and prevalence of mental illness in Samoa says the head of the Mental Health Unit at the Moto’otua Tupua Meaole’s Hospital, Seiulialii Dr George Tuitama.
Seiulialii said the research will also be able to paint a picture on how data on the state of mental health in the country will be able to combat the prevalence of violence in the community and provide remedies for school brawls as well.
“Yes of course it is important to teach and talk about mental health, mainly self-control, anger management and identifying contributing factors, like existing mental problems, stressful lives at home and in communities,” Seiuliali’i said.
As an advocate for mental health awareness, Seiulialii said that it was important to work together with other institutions with similar portfolios.
“I am working with organizations like the Salvation Army too. They can deal with some of the patients that I receive, as they have a pretty organised structure of mental practitioners,” he said.
In an earlier interview with Seiulialii he made reference to young boys and girls not being able to express themselves freely. He said much of this had to do with culture.
He said there was a very important need to provide an avenue for young people to express themselves and share their thoughts. He said this was a good practice and would help in dealing with the mental health of the young and keep them away from substance abuse and suicide.
Read more at SamoaObserver.ws.
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