A senior health professional highlighted the importance of mental health in diabetes care during the ‘Diabetes Symposium: Focus on Diabetes and Well-being’ held at a hotel in Gadong yesterday.
Consultant Endocrinologist and Head of the Endocrinology Department at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital Dr Lina Chong Pui Lin emphasised the significance of mental health, particularly among individuals with diabetes.
She noted that while there has been increased awareness and acceptance of mental health issues, stigma still persists in many societies. Dr Chong stressed the role of healthcare professionals in protecting the mental health of people with diabetes by developing strategies to reduce stigma.
She also emphasised the need for a multi-sectoral approach to tackle diabetes, involving prevention, early detection and treatment.
The National Health Screening programme, launched in 2019, is a significant step towards early detection and prevention of diabetes.
Additionally, digital technology, such as the BruHealth app, plays a crucial role in empowering patients with diabetes through self-assessment tools, health promotion campaigns and access to online health records.
Dr Chong also highlighted the importance of personalised care, emphasising that healthcare professionals should go beyond textbook approaches and consider the individual needs of each patient. She encouraged a more empathetic and holistic approach, where healthcare providers actively listen to their patients’ concerns and address their mental health needs.
While Brunei’s healthcare system provides free healthcare to citizens and permanent residents, continued efforts are needed to improve accessibility to diabetes care, especially in terms of awareness, regular health checks, readily available treatments and the utilisation of technology.
The World Diabetes Day, observed annually on November 14, underscores the importance of physical, mental, and social well-being in diabetes care. The symposium, held in conjunction with this global initiative, brought together experts to discuss various aspects of diabetes care, including endocrinology, psychiatry, sports medicine, psychology and paediatric endocrinology. – Fadhil Yunus
