We learned that patients residing in the district of Kuala Krai, 30 kilometers away from our MENTARI facility, were having difficulty accessing rehabilitation services after acute relapse. Despite this, they remained very enthusiastic about the program and activities offered in MENTARI.  This led us to the idea:  why not bring the MENTARI’s service directly to them?  

On May 29, 2024 we launched our first mobile MENTARI clinic in Mukim Chuchoh, Kuala Krai. The team, led by a specialist and joined by a medical officer,  occupational therapist, staff nurses and paramedics, aimed to reach individuals in Mukim Chuchoh who had limited access to mental health rehabilitation programs. The mobile MENTARI clinic and  its team provided knowledge, psychosocial skills, and support, helping patients move towards recovery. 

We arrived at Masjid Chuchoh by van after a 40-minute drive from the hospital. We were greeted by the leader of Masjid Chuchoh Puteri A, who also gave an opening speech, followed by remarks from our psychiatrist in charge. 

During our first mobile MENTARI visit, we served four patients.  The activities included DASS screening, ADL training, play therapy (chess) and psychoeducation. We also distributed  ADL starter kits to participants. The clinic lasted four hours, concluding at 1 afternoon, followed by lunch.   

We initially faced challenges in finding a suitable location for the clinic, as we needed a clean and easily accessible public area. However, with the help of local villagers, we successfully identified an appropriate site.

We plan to conduct this mobile Mentari clinic again on August 12, 2024, and in November 2024, with the goal of benefiting our patients and providing a valuable platform for villagers to access mental health services.