STAKEHOLDERS CALL FOR PRIORITIZATION OF MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS

STAKEHOLDERS CALL FOR PRIORITIZATION OF MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Correctional News / Wed, 10/30/2024 - 08:51

STAKEHOLDERS CALL FOR PRIORITIZATION OF MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS
By Sean Mutuma
Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya has underscored the need to ensure that mental wellness is placed at the core of the country’s efforts to reform its correctional services.

Speaking as she closed this year’s Correctional Service Week organized by the State Department for Correctional Services, Tuya said it was imperative to build a correctional system that prioritizes mental health, strengthens rehabilitation and delivers effective service for all.

“The status of mental health within our correctional facilities is a call to action. We must work tirelessly to close the gaps identified in access to mental health care, stress management for staff, and trauma recovery for inmates.” She told the forum.

This even as she called for the adoption of holistic strategies that address the root causes ensuring resultant interventions are not just reactive but preventive.

“Mental health is not a side issue, but a foundation upon which effective rehabilitation, reintegration, and service delivery must be built upon,” she observed.

Speaking at the same forum, State Department for Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco said the conference provided a platform for stakeholders’ engagement on the adoption of innovative mental health programs, technology-driven solutions, and trauma-informed care approaches which she said will go a long way in enhancing inmate rehabilitation and reintegration. 

“The Conference has reaffirmed the fact that Mental wellness among staff contributes to more effective rehabilitation programs, as emotionally stable officers are more empathetic, understanding, and capable of guiding offenders through their rehabilitation journey.” Observed the PS.

The three-day conference which kicked off on Tuesday under the theme “Mental health and wellness for effective Service delivery” highlighted the importance of mental health in the context of correctional services.