7 Mar 2016

Mental health policy launched in Cook Islands

7:37 am on 7 March 2016

In an effort to address issues of concern, the Ministry of Health launched the Cook Islands Mental Health Policy and Cook Islands Road Safety Strategy over the weekend.

The ministry's policy and research manager Valentino Wichman says it took a year to draft the policies and a couple of weeks to organise the event.

Mr Wichman says the new mental health policy aimed to provide care, enhance recovery and reduce disability among those affected by mental disorders.

He says the Cook Islands Mental Health and Well Being policy 2015 was endorsed last year and the Cook Islands road safety strategy 2016-2020 in January this year.

Mr Wichman says the aim was to create a nation where mental well-being was valued, recognised and understood.

He says sufferers need the public's support to reach their potential and they need to know there is a guideline for mental health and well-being in the country and that mental health is a priority.

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