Twenty percent of the Fijian population is currently suffering from mental health issues reveals the Health Ministry.

Minister responsible, Rosy Akbar says communicating and sharing issues which gives stress is one of the best ways to channel matters concerning mental health.

Akbar adds families play a vital role in bringing these numbers down by providing support to family members when needed.

“Laughter, smile, joy, where is it? When can you openly share your problems with the next person. Where did we lose that trust that we are not talking to people. We need to go back and if you have any problem, don’t keep it to yourself. To young people especially, it’s very important that you communicate.”

One in four adults suffer from some form of mental health issues while one in five youths suffer from mental health issues.

The mental health day will be celebrated in Labasa along with the Fiji Day celebrations on Wednesday.

The theme for this year’s celebration is young people and mental health in a changing world.