Not easy for doctors to identify those with mental issues

I learnt with concern about Private Ganesh Pillay’s tragedy. (“Coroner rules out foul play in NSF’s death; April 8, Channel NewsAsia)

I know that the Ministry of Defence errs on the side of caution in certifying a man fit or unfit for combat duties.

It is indeed difficult for its medical officers or, for that matter, any doctor to identify people with mental issues.

In my 17 years of teaching children with learning difficulties, I am encountering more boys with autism or personality disorder, but are diagnosed with something else.

One would be unable to tell that something is amiss unless one spends time and has the knowledge through observing and interacting with them. The operative words are time and knowledge.

Sadly, many parents know that all is not right, but refuse to have it on paper for fear of stigmatising their sons.

This denial leads to the boys being enlisted later without them or the ministry knowing that something is wrong.

It is difficult for everyone.