Psychiatrist calls for better knowledge of mental health

Thursday, 19 November 2009

By Karen Davis

A LEADING psychiatrist has called for better public understanding for sufferers of mental health problems.

Dr John Mbamali, one of the founder members of the St Luke’s Hospital Group, which runs Old Leigh House, in Old Leigh Road, Leigh, spoke out during National Care Home Week.

He said that ignorance and fear led people to be wary of patients who suffered from mental health problems and this could make it very difficult for sufferers to integrate into the community.

He explained: “At St Luke’s, we deal with people who have learning difficulties and some who have suffered brain injuries.

“We aim to treat them and give them the confidence to take part in social events, get further education and go back into employment, but this is sometimes hampered by the public attitude to mental health.”

Dr Mbamali continued: “A mental health problem is no different to an ailment in some other part of the body except that is usually less visually obvious.

“If someone broke their arm and then recovered and wished to return to work there would be no problem, but unfortunately there is a stigma attached to mental issues which is hard to eradicate.”

Staff at Old Leigh House met up with the MP for Southend West, David Amess to discuss their experiences.

He commented: “Mental health issues can affect each and every one of us and sufficient support must be available locally to help people recover.”

Jacquie Tweedie, chief executive of St Luke’s Hospital Group said: “When St Luke’s started out, it was because we were very aware of the lack of secure services for people with learning disabilities, mental health and challenging behaviour in the UK.”

And Dr Mbamali added: “When Old Leigh House was first proposed, it faced enormous opposition from nearby residents, but since its opening in 2005, there has not been one complaint.

"Neighbours even come to our parties.”

For more information about mental health issues, visit www.mind.org.uk

Email: southend@yellowad.co.uk

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