Inmates’ mental health vital for rehabilitation

A marginal population in correctional institutions is accessing essential services and support to achieve their best possible mental health and wellbeing.

Speaking on behalf of the CS Commissioner during the World Health Day, CS Deputy Commissioner, Dennis Piandi said mental disorders and its traumatic effects are increasing annually around PNG.

This includes individuals in the correctional system too, who are experiencing mental health problems and mental illnesses.

“I am happy to state that the relationship between Mental Health Services and Correctional Services is timely honored and cordial as this advances our relationship cohesively towards the theme “Depression- Let’s Talk”,” he said.

He said correctional institutions are focusing on continuity of care to individuals with depression in order to enhance the effectiveness of service accessed prior to, during and after being in the care and custody of our correctional system.

“This will improve individual health outcomes where a mentally healthy person will contribute to a safer society for all to live in.”

He adds that for officers who have no training to manage mentally disordered offenders in correctional institutions creates more professional and operational dilemmas.

However, he said during this stress conditions, the Mental Health Services of the Department of Health has been of immense support to them, by providing professional clinical and psychological care to those affected by this dilemma.

Piandi congratulated the team leaders for the passion in advocating mental health in PNG and encouraged them to serve the people with commitment and love.

Author: 
Annette Kora