TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW, 衛福部) announced on Friday (Nov. 29) its support for mental health leave for public servants, and planned to collaborate with relevant departments to provide professional advice.
Deputy Health Minister Lin Ching-yi (林靜儀) emphasized the ministry's role in offering mental health expertise. However, the specifics of the mental health leave for public servants remain under evaluation by the Directorate-General of Personnel Administration (人事總處), she stated.
Lin noted that public concern over mental health across various professions has prompted the ministry to introduce counseling programs for youth and the middle-aged. These initiatives aim to help individuals understand self-awareness and facilitate referrals for further treatment.
Lin's comments came after President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) suggestions regarding the addition of mental health leave for public servants, during the second meeting of the "Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee" (健康台灣推動委員會) on Thursday. Public interest has grown regarding the criteria for leave approval and whether it will be paid.