by Augustine Kolly | Feb 23, 2026 | Guides, Toolkits
The Directorate for Social Change and Mental Health Services held a significant event yesterday.
Launch of Traditional Uses of Plants For Health and Healing in Bougainville (Part 1 & 2)
The launch highlighted the significance of Traditional Herbal Medicine including Plants and Mineral-based treatments, and celebrates PNG’s rich cultural heritage in healing.
Professor Prem P. Rai is the Author of the two books. He specializes in medical plants and traditional medicine.
The Co-Author of the book is Ms. Gelenta Salopuka who is currently a lecture at the University of Papua New Guinea under the Division of Basic Medical Sciences.
Guests including Simon G. Pentanu – Speaker of the Bougainville House of Representatives, Professor J.A.K Lauwo – Head of Pharmacy Discipline at UPNG and a few others.
by Augustine Kolly | Feb 23, 2026 | Awareness Campaigns, Community Outreach, Training Sessions, Workshops
The Directorate was part of a recent Community Health Fair in Vabukori Village on the 19th of November, 2024.
We acknowledge and appreciate the PNG Cancer Foundation and the Vabukori Women’s Development Association for organizing and hosting the special event.
Our team was given an opportunity to talk about Mental Health. Dr. Mai and Dr. Taitarae spoke about the significance of having an healthy mind and the positive outcomes of it. They also emphasized on the services the Directorate offers to the people for free.
We were excited to be among other organizations and individuals who were doing what they can in their respective areas to serve the people of this nation.
We are looking forward to working with you all to make PNG a healthy society for all.
by Augustine Kolly | Feb 19, 2026 | Community Out Reach
“It’s Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace”
This year’s theme, chosen by the World Federation for Mental Health, is “It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace.” The theme highlights the critical need to create healthier work environments that support mental well-being.
With adults spending most of their waking hours at work, it’s essential that workplaces promote mental health, rather than harm it. Mental health issues like depression and anxiety are widespread in workplaces and can severely impact productivity. The economic cost of untreated mental health issues is estimated at $1 trillion annually, according to the WHO. The COVID-19 pandemic has further emphasized the urgent need for mental health support at work. Leaders worldwide are recognizing that investing in mental health benefits both individuals and organizations.
World Mental Health Day 2024 will emphasize workplace mental health issues, including stress management, social inclusion, and supportive policies. By prioritizing mental health, workplaces can foster environments where employees thrive and contribute positively.
The Directorate for Social Change and Mental Health Services (DSCMHS) in Papua New Guinea is collaborating globally to advocate for these changes. DSCMHS, in partnership with organizations like the WHO and United Nations, seeks to influence policies that promote mental health and global citizenship. This year’s theme gives us a renewed opportunity to advocate for supportive workplaces where mental health is a priority.
Research shows that supportive work environments improve mental health, boost productivity, and reduce stigma. Employers are encouraged to provide accommodations, flexible work hours, and access to mental healt resources. Training for managers to recognize and address mental health concerns can also create a culture of support and care.
Globally, there’s an urgent need to make workplaces healthier and more inclusive, especially as many jobs have shifted to home environments post-pandemic. Addressing mental health in the workplace is essential not only for individual well-being but also for creating productive and innovative organizations. This World Mental Health Day let’s come together to champion mental health at work. I am incredibly grateful to the global citizens that have helped DSCMHS in celebrating this years’ global campaign theme.
Dr. Umadevi Ambihaipahar , OBE
Former Director, Directorate for Social Change and Mental Health Services
(DSCMHS)
including Plants and Mineral-based treatments, and celebrates PNG’s rich cultural heritage in healing.
