Mental disorders: Applying the safety net

Mental disorders: Applying the safety net

Li Na passed by a house in a rural village.
An unkempt, half-naked man was squatting
over a drain outside a half-burned house.

The driver said, “he is a mentally-ill person.
He was probably trying to cook some food.”
A lady sitting next to Anna chuckled,
“… and burning down his own house, crazy fella.”

Li Na was disappointed with the elderly lady.
“But, but, this house is so near the hospital!
He needs treatment!” Li Na exclaimed.
“The police would not come and take him to the hospital because no one reported it,” the driver explained.

… Society has failed him.
… Our mental health safety net has failed,
…His family members have failed him and not gotten him treated.
Li Na felt guilty too for not picking up the phone,
as the team moved on.

***************************

The above anecdote is an example and illustration of some neglected persons.

Covid-19 causes stress and potential mental disorders risks in society and work places as well. Safety net policies need to be enforced for these people at risk

****************************