Health Bureau prioritizes mental health

The Health Bureau is raising awareness of mental health issues and resources as part of World Suicide Prevention Day activities.

The Macau Health Bureau has placed great importance on the mental well-being of its residents, adhering to the principle of “prevention first, proper medical treatment” and the “people-oriented” approach. Under the “Healthy Macau Blueprint,” the Bureau has formulated a phased mental health promotion strategy that integrates health concepts into various public policies through cross-departmental collaboration.

This year’s World Suicide Prevention Day theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” aims to encourage open discussions about mental health, according to the Health Bureau. By 2030, the agency has set three specific goals and six evaluation indicators to maintain the mental health of Macau residents throughout their lives. This includes formulating and implementing relevant laws and regulations, building a social support network, and educating residents on mental health awareness and self-care.

The government has also established an inter-departmental collaboration mechanism to better address the community’s mental health needs. Frontline services include eight mental health clinics and crisis counseling through Hospital Centre S. Januario’s psychiatric department. Community outreach teams follow at-risk patients, and health centers are increasing clinicians’ psychiatric training.

Repeated public awareness campaigns emphasize the importance of mental health. Residents are urged to pay attention to their own well-being and support loved ones. While managing stress through exercise or sharing feelings is encouraged, more serious troubles should prompt professional help-seeking behavior without hesitation.

By addressing mental health proactively, Macau can work to build a society of understanding and care for all residents’ healthy minds, bodies, and spirits. Continued promotion of prevention and treatment should benefit community wellness. Victoria Chan