Solomon Islands Leader of the Parliamentary Opposition, Matthew Wale says reports of the increasing number of mentally ill persons in the country are ‘worrying’.

Mr Wale was responding to a media statement from the Head of Psychiatry at the National Referral Hospital that the number of mentally ill persons in the country is on the rise.

NRH has recorded a total of 2893 cases with 269 most recent cases.

The Opposition Leader said it is a worrying trend especially when most of the cases are caused by drug (marijuana) related, stress disorders, family issues and unemployment.

“A nation wide effort needs to be undertaken to collect data from all over the country. The recorded cases are only from NRH and one could imagine hundreds more who are out there that needs urgent help,” Mr Wale said.

He said the number of reported incidents involving drug, alcohol, and suicides and so on is a reflection of the alarming social related issues faced in the country.

The Opposition Leader urged relevant government authorities and NGOs to wake up to the realities on the ground.

The Opposition Leader also urged the ministry of health to review the Mental Health Act.

“We need proper mental health facilities and serious government attention. We cannot continue to turn a blind eye on this issue. These people need help to be properly housed as some may be a threat to the public as well,” he said.

Wale said progress of mental health services in the country has been very poor throughout the years and it is a concern.

The Opposition Leader said the government’s Mental Health & Community Wellbeing policy should also focus on increase awareness on mental health in schools and communities.

He adds the mental health facility in Kilufii must be equipped with adequate beds, proper management, security and properly staffed.

Hon Wale also recommended government policy to also explore the need to establish proper mental health facilities at Helena Goldie Hospital, Gizo, Lata and NRH.