This petition comes from a deeply personal, harrowing journey where the stark deficiencies in our health system were unfairly revealed. I once suffered from a gut leak, which consequentially impacted my mental health. Regrettably, rather than receiving proper treatment for my physical ailments alongside my mental health concerns, I was sent to a mental health facility. By neglecting my physical health and focusing solely on the mental, my situation gravely deteriorated, culminating in a life-threatening stomach rupture. Incorporated into this ordeal was a worsening mental state, resulting in forcible detainment and ineffective, inappropriate treatment.

The devastating experience I had is sadly not unique. According to the American Psychiatric Association, nearly 40% of adults with severe mental illness such as schizophrenia also have a physical condition, which may often be overlooked during treatment. It is imperative that we act now to enforce a comprehensive approach to dual diagnosis in health facilities nationwide.

Our plea is to the health authorities and stakeholders. We assert the necessity for all health facilities to be trained in appropriately responding to both physical and mental health emergencies and crises. By doing so, we can prevent setbacks and unfortunate incidents that not only exacerbate mental health issues, but also put lives in danger. It is essential that the mental and physical aspects of health are equally valued and assessed in our healthcare system to ensure the best patient outcomes.

Join us in advocating for this cause. No one should experience what I, and countless others, have had to go through. Sign this petition to make all health facilities prioritise and be proficient in comprehensive physical and mental health care.