TAIPEI (TVBS News)—The New Taipei City Kuomintang (KMT) caucus (新北市國民黨議會黨團) proposed on Tuesday (Aug. 6) the introduction of mental health leave for men and the establishment of a dedicated counseling hotline.
Councilor Chen Wei-chieh (陳偉杰) suggested that the government implement a monthly psychological adjustment leave for men, as middle-aged men experience significant stress and societal pressures, leading them to suffer in silence.
Councilor Lu Chia-kai (呂家愷) believes the government could establish a counseling hotline for men facing difficulties at home or work. He noted that men are less likely to share their stress, which could potentially lead to unhealthy behaviors such as excessive drinking.
Additionally, Councilor Chiang I-chen (江怡臻) suggested providing comprehensive measures for middle-aged men's re-employment. Chiang proposed offering vocational courses in culinary arts, gardening, and languages taught by experienced retirees to help them develop new skills and reenter the workforce.