The Secretary of State for Public Health, Carlos Pinto de Sousa, reiterated on Thursday in Luanda for community leaders, civil society organizations, national and international partners to strengthen their commitment to mental health care.
The official made the call during the opening of the awards ceremony for the ‘Mental Health’ prize and the exhibition of various paintings, photographs and poetry.
Carlos de Sousa stressed the need to ensure that mental health care and services are integrated into all levels of the National Health System and reach the most remote areas, where they are most needed.
The official urged all citizens to prioritize mental well-being, as well as to support those who need help and encourage open dialogue on the subject in families, schools, workplaces and the community.
Carlos de Sousa said the country has numerous health challenges, in which the government is committed to promote access for all citizens, regardless of where they live, as well as access to the mental health ca
re they need.
He added that the country has an integrated mental health services network in all the provinces, in the health units.
‘This service is available to offer specialized support to all those who need psychological or psychiatric follow-up and support,’ the official said.
Carlos Pinto de Sousa also stressed that World Mental Health Day, which is being marked on October 10, is a moment of global reflection, however in the country it has a deeper meaning, as many citizens face mental health struggles in isolation ‘without understanding that they don’t have to suffer alone’.
World Mental Health Day is celebrated every year on October 10.
In 2024, the theme is ‘Mental health at work’, with the aim of highlighting the essential role of mental health in professional environments, advocating for workplaces where it is prioritized, protected and promoted.c
Source: Angola Press News Agency
