MENTAL health services are under increasing pressure as more young people require care and support, Youth and Sports Minister Jese Saukuru said.
Mr Saukuru said St Giles Hospital and other mental health services were already dealing with significant demand involving young people.
He questioned what the future would look like if a large section of Fiji’s youth population continued to struggle with mental health and substance abuse.
“Some of these young people should be studying, working, building careers and contributing to their families and communities,” he said.
Speaking in iTaukei to youth at Dogoru Village in Macuata, Mr Saukuru said Fiji could not afford to ignore the warning signs or wait until young people’s lives reached a crisis point.
He called for stronger prevention, education, rehabilitation and support services.
“Young people need places where they can seek help before their problems become severe,” he said.
Mr Saukuru said the Government was concerned about the social issues affecting young people and the challenges being experienced in communities.
“Families and communities have an important role in supporting young people facing difficulties.”
He said addressing youth mental health required more than Government intervention.
“Parents, schools, churches, communities and youth organisations need to work together to ensure young people receive appropriate guidance and support.”
Mr Saukuru said Fiji must create an environment where young people can pursue their aspirations rather than be trapped by social problems.
