Nearly 6,000 mentally-ill patients referred to ARCS in 3 months

KABUL (Pajhwok): The Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue, Prevention of Vice have identified nearly 6,000 mental health patients over the past three months and referred them to provincial offices of the Afghan Red Crescent Society.

About three months ago, the leader of the Islamic Emirate issued a decree instructing officials and staff of the MoPV to identify individuals suffering from mental disorders and refer them to ARCS for treatment. The directive aimed to ensure the mental well-being of vulnerable individuals, prevent threats posed by mental health patients in society, and facilitate access to specialized treatment.

In a statement, the ministry said that following the issuance of the decree, its personnel began the process of identifying mental health patients, resulting in the identification of 5,781 patients nationwide, who were handed over to ARCS for medical care.

Ministry spokesman Mawlawi Saif-ul-Islam Khyber explained cooperation from ARCS and the efforts of ministry personnel have helped ensure access to healthcare services for mental health patients.

He assured that the treatment process for mentally ill patients will continue seriously and that efforts are being made to provide them with the necessary services.

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