MOHW vows to improve community mental health post-attack

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A day after a random stabbing incident on the Taichung Metro, Deputy Minister of Health and Welfare Lin Ching-yi (林靜儀) emphasized on Wednesday (May 22) that only a minority of criminals require treatment for mental disabilities, highlighting the need for continued promotion of national mental health and collaboration with the Ministry of Justice to ensure detainees receive necessary treatment.

Strengthening Community Mental Health

In response to the attack, Deputy Minister Lue Jen-der (呂建德) stated the MOHW's commitment to expanding the social welfare workforce and enhancing community mental health services. This move aims to reinforce the social safety net and ensure a more secure environment for citizens. 

The assailant, a 20-year-old nursing school student from Kaohsiung with a history of mental issues, had previously received counseling at his school, underscoring the importance of accessible mental health resources.

A Vision for a Healthier Taiwan

Minister Chiu Tai-yuan (邱泰源) reiterated President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) vision for a "healthy Taiwan," which includes fostering children's psychological well-being from a young age. This initiative aims to achieve psychological satisfaction and improve society's overall mental health. 

The new cabinet, which took office following President Lai's inauguration on May 20, sees Minister Chiu leading the charge alongside Deputy Ministers Lin Ching-yi, Lue Jen-der, and the retained Deputy Minister Chou Chih-hao (周志浩) in unveiling their policy directions to address these critical issues.