THE Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Mirembe National Mental Health Hospital (MNMH) has launched specialised training to enhance mental health services in regional referral hospitals.

The training aims to equip medical personnel with the necessary skills to deliver and establish mental health services in hospitals.

Dr Paul Lawala, Executive Director of Mirembe National Mental Health Hospital, made this announcement during the opening of a five-day training programme for doctors from regional referral hospitals across the country.

Dr Lawala explained that the training is designed to strengthen and improve mental health services nationwide, enabling communities to prevent mental health disorders effectively.

He urged mental health professionals to act as ambassadors in their field by advancing their expertise and specialising in mental health care.

“Once you understand the human brain, you gain insight into the entire world and become a vital asset to society and the nation in addressing mental health challenges,” he stated.

Dr Lawala also praised the regional referral hospitals in Iringa and Njombe for their efforts in establishing comprehensive mental health services.

However, he emphasised the need for greater support to enhance these hospitals' services, including the capacity to admit and treat patients locally, thereby reducing unnecessary mental health referrals.