Authorities at Pantang Hospital are deeply concerned about the insufficient support and attention directed towards mental health institutions in the country.
They have therefore urged the government and relevant stakeholders to collaborate and allocate sufficient funding and vital support to these crucial mental health facilities.
Speaking to Citi News, Dr. Frank Baning, the Medical Director of Pantang Hospital, emphasized the necessity of substantial financial backing and focused attention on mental health institutions in the country.
Dr. Baning added that “increasing public awareness campaigns to combat the stigma surrounding mental health within the country; policy reforms; integration of mental health into primary healthcare; community-based services; stigma reduction initiatives; professional training; collaborations; and digital innovations would be pivotal in advancing the country’s efforts in the mental health field.”
Meanwhile, the hospital is actively engaging with all relevant stakeholders to garner support for overcoming financial constraints and ensuring the continuity of their efforts under the “Operation Set the Captives Free Initiative.”
This initiative is dedicated to identifying, treating, and reintegrating 300 mentally ill individuals who are currently living on the streets back into society.
Dr. Baning emphasized that this support is instrumental in sustaining uninterrupted operations and propelling additional initiatives within the hospital, all aimed at effectively addressing mental health challenges in the country.