Health officials in Luganville are raising concern over the increasing number of people experiencing mental health problems in the northern town.

Eziekiel Danmelip, Person in Charge of the Mind Care Clinic at the Northern Provincial Hospital, said the number of cases has risen significantly in recent years.

He explained that when the clinic began operating full-time in 2018, only a few patients were seen. However, the situation has changed, with more than 10 people with mental health conditions now seen walking around Luganville town.

Mr Danmelip stressed that people living with mental health conditions need strong family support.

He assured the public that treatment and medication are available at the clinic, and many patients who previously received care have recovered and returned to work.

A caregiver, Esther Tinning, shared her personal experience caring for her two sons who faced mental health challenges over the past five years. She said that through treatment at the Mind Care Clinic, she has seen significant improvement.

She urged families not to neglect relatives living with mental health conditions or leave them wandering the streets, but instead to seek professional help at the clinic.

Mr Danmelip also highlighted drug use as one of the contributing factors affecting many young people and leading to mental health problems.

He added that chronic illnesses such as diabetes and high blood pressure can also impact mental wellbeing, placing additional stress on both patients and their families as they adjust to new health realities.

The Mind Care Clinic at Northern Provincial Hospital is calling on families to bring relatives experiencing mental health issues for proper assessment and treatment, emphasizing that early intervention can make a significant difference.