As Fiji continues to roll out its diabetes and wellness campaign, health officials are emphasizing the critical role of mental well-being in the care of chronic illnesses. Assistant Minister for Health, Penioni Ravunawa, strongly advocates for the inclusion of mental health resources alongside medical treatments. He stresses that patients need access to counseling, peer support, and community engagement to significantly enhance their health outcomes.
Ravunawa noted, “Take your health into your own hands. No one can walk this journey for you. It is your responsibility. Wellness must now become our culture, not just an event.” This message aligns with broader trends in health care, where emotional and psychological support is increasingly recognized as an essential aspect of effective treatment.
The importance of mental health is echoed by Diabetes Fiji’s Principal Officer, Dr. Momtaz Ahmed, who highlighted that the younger workforce is increasingly affected by diabetes. He advocates for workplaces to provide better support to these individuals. The Ministry of Health is actively working on integrating mental health support with physical care, aiming to create a more holistic approach that could enhance recovery for diabetes patients.
This initiative is especially timely as Fiji grapples with alarming diabetes statistics, with about 16.6% of adults diagnosed. The government has committed to a national outreach campaign focusing on screening, awareness, and early detection of diabetes, which is critical given that 80% of deaths in the country are linked to non-communicable diseases, including diabetes.
In a previous occurrence marking World Diabetes Day, Kini Marawa, Executive Director of Diabetes Fiji, discussed the urgent need for community involvement to combat this health crisis. He expressed optimism, affirming that diabetes can be managed effectively through lifestyle changes and improved awareness. This message resonates across various health campaigns focusing on prevention and early detection.
Through collaborative efforts, the campaign aims not only to address immediate health challenges but also to foster sustainable improvements in public health. The aim is to empower individuals and communities to take proactive steps towards better health, reducing the stigma surrounding diabetes and enhancing support systems conducive to healthier living.
The integration of mental health support in diabetes care signifies a hopeful advancement in the approach to chronic illness management, aiming to cultivate a resilient and supportive community that actively participates in their health journeys.