Yesterday was World Mental Health Day, which is observed every year with the aim of raising public awareness on mental health issues. AD Chairperson Arnold Cassola said, “the promotion of mental health is important if we want to promote a better quality of life for everyone. The chosen theme for this year by the World Federation for Mental Health is: making mental health a global priority. It is time to reflect and look toward the future, and to make mental health a priority, by looking at what needs to be changed and what needs to be done to improve mental health services and awareness on the issue.”

AD spokesperson on Health and Social Protection, Mary Anne Zammit said, “Mental health includes the individual’s ability to enjoy life and create a balance, notwithstanding everyday stress and problems. We have to ensure that those individuals identified as suffering from mental or behavioral disorders are given the necessary care and support in order for them to keep functioning within our community by addressing their probems in their social social setting.”

Alternattiva Demokratika’s Chairperson also took the opportunity to reiterate his support of the National Commission Persons with Disability’s call for the police to investigate a video clip posted on YouTube featuring “Maltese bullies.” Arnold Cassola, Alternattiva Demokratika Chairperson, stated: “Ridiculing and making fun of disabled people on account of their physical and/or intellectual impairments is something absolutely disgusting and unacceptable in the civilized world, and simply reveals a total lack of sensitivity on the part of the perpetrators.”

Mary Anne Zammit, Alternattiva Demokratika spokesperson on Health and Social Protection, added, “people with a disability of any kind are equal citizens and should be treated with respect and dignity like any other member in civil society.”

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