The Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Sashi Kiran, officiated at the 21st Anniversary celebration of the Psychiatric Survivors Association (PSA) Fiji and launched two of their publications, Expecting Mothers with Psychosocial Disabilities and Children Living in Psychosocially Affected Families, this week.
Since its establishment in 2004, the PSA has been at the forefront of supporting people with psychosocial disabilities in Fiji, advocating for human rights, reducing stigma, and creating safe spaces where survivors can lead and support each other.
The event was held under the theme “21 Years of Advocacy, Empowerment, and Change: Dignity and Rights for Persons with Psychosocial Disabilities in Fiji.”
In her remarks, Minister Kiran highlighted the urgent need for collective action to address the mental health and psychosocial challenges affecting individuals and families in Fiji.
“Sadly, in the past five years, 489 people have taken their own lives, and 446 have attempted unsuccessfully. There may also be unreported cases. These were calls for help, and we as a society had failed them. Many young people are turning to substance abuse as they struggle with psychosocial challenges,” Minister Kiran said.
She urged parents and families to play a stronger role in supporting children and young people experiencing personal struggles.
“I ask parents and family members to observe their children, look into their eyes, and you will know if your children are going through personal challenges. Instead of judging, timely intervention and support could go a long way,” she added.
Minister Kiran thanked the Psychiatric Survivors Association for its two decades of service, calling the organisation “a beacon of hope, courage, and leadership.” She also commended the Association for its new focus on HIV/AIDS prevention, education, and care, as well as its efforts to address drug use among people with psychosocial disabilities.
“This is not just timely—it is urgent. In 2024 alone, Fiji recorded 1,583 new HIV cases, the highest ever in our history.”
Hon. Kiran also reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working alongside community partners such as the PSA to ensure dignity, rights, and inclusive support for persons with psychosocial disabilities in Fiji.