Experience from mental health clinics held during medical service camps in Fiji

Abstract

Objective:

We aim to describe the experience and findings of mental health clinics held during medical service camps in the rural settings of Fiji.

Method:

Descriptive data collated at the end of the medical camps across 2011–2014 are used to highlight the main findings.

Results:

The exposure to mental health assessments and brief interventions at these camps was a validating experience for both individuals and medical students attending the clinics. The most common presentations can be categorised under symptoms of depression, anxiety and relationship problems.

Conclusions:

The accessibility of mental health support services is a challenge in Fiji. Medical service camps can form an important pathway in promoting mental health awareness, especially amongst the rural communities of Fiji, and a useful platform for medical students to acquire some clinical exposure.