Lydia Abela Joins Both Sides Of Parliament To Discuss New Measures Taken To Tackle Mental Health Issues
Together with former president, Marie-Louise Coleiro, Lydia Abela has opened up about an initiative that will aid with early intervention for young children in regards to mental health challenges.
The announcement was made during the SPEAK talk held at Villa Francia by Abela on World Mental Health day. The event saw members of Parliament from both the Government and the Opposition present to discuss the topic of mental health in general and with a particular emphasis on its presence in the workplace. Public figures, stakeholders and industry professionals were also present at the gathering to participate in the open discussion.
“A study conducted last year by MISCO showed that nearly 70% of individuals who suffered through mental health challenges never opened up about these difficulties with their employers,” explained Abela, “We cannot keep sweeping mental health under the rug.”
The discussions tackled the fact that people in the public eye and political figures also suffer through these challenges. Moreover, an emphasis was made for mutual respect and the creation of a safe environment within the political community and the public in general.
“Anyone who enters the public eye knows that criticism and scrutiny is expected, but we draw the line at divide and hate,” Abela remarked, “We often say that to be in the public eye you ‘need a tough shell’, but why is that the case? Why can’t you provide your utmost and still live a serene life?”
The crux of the discussion was the necessity that the public should be properly equipped with the right tools to tackle mental health challenges. Abela remarked that such an intervention is a priority especially in children, as helping the younger generation understand and tackle their emotions would benefit them in their lifetime, much to the agreement of the guests present.
“We will be collaborating with the foundation established by Her Excellency, Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, The Malta Trust Foundation, where we will be offering psychotherapist and psychologist services throughout all local schools,” Abela told Lovin Malta, “We believe children should be a priority so they can grow up to feel that they’re able to openly talk about mental health and be prepared for it with the right tools.”
Both Abela and distinguished guests, such as Neil Agius, Christabelle Borg and Clifton Grima highlighted the efforts that had been made through the years in relation to the topic of Mental Health. Professor Carmen Sammut explained to Lovin Malta that for eight years protocols have been established at the University of Malta, and have since evolved to train staff members and students alike to tackle early intervention, crisis resolution and also victim support.
“The development is still ongoing, but there always has to be a beginning,” Sammut told the newsroom, “Suicide and self-harm is a very delicate subject, not only because of what the individual is going through, but, even the effects it has on their families, the cohort of friends, the teachers involved with them too. So, this is something delicate that we try to provide as much help as possible for.”
Abela mentioned other ongoing efforts such as an initiative started after the COVID pandemic, in collaboration with the Richmond Foundation, where, “Maltese and Gozitan schools were offered courses on ‘Mental Health First Aid’ to provide the children with the necessary tools so that when they grow up they can recognize these mental challenges and be aware of what they have to do in the moment.”
The event came to a close with Abela thanking the present company and all those who strive to raise awareness for the situation and those who continue to do their utmost to reduce the stigma.
What do you think of the current efforts being taken to support mental health?
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