Latest update January 1st, 2025 1:00 AM
Oct 19, 2014 News
Despite significant challenges which prevent Guyanese from accessing quality mental health services in a timely manner, Minister of Health Dr. Bheri Ramsaran has noted that plans are actively underway to address this issue.
Earlier this month, Guyana joined with countries around the world to observe World Mental Health Day (WMHD). However, according the World Health Organization, (WHO), the overall objective of the observance is raising awareness of mental health issues around the world and mobilizing efforts in support of mental health.
WMHD was established in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health. In some countries around the world, it forms just one part of the larger Mental Illness Awareness Week. Mental Health problems, ranging from issues like Depression and Anxiety Disorders to conditions like Schizophrenia, affect millions of people around the world. In fact, according to current statistics, 1 in 4 people will experience some kind of mental health problem during their lifetime and many more will see friends of family members affected.
It was noted that there is need for increased education on the topic and an attempt to eliminate the stigma attached which will, in turn encourage sufferers to seek help and support.
A number of fundraising events have taken place globally since the observance provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work; and the necessary steps that must be taken in order to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.
The Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO), indicates that 19-24% of the population in the Americas suffer from a mental disorder.
According to local statistics, there are less than five full-time psychiatrists and less than 300 beds at the National Psychiatric Hospital in Berbice.
In recent years, several organizations and non- governmental bodies have called on citizens to become involved in efforts to tackle the mental health problem in Guyana citing poverty and hardship as some of the main causes for the mental health breakdowns.
There were calls for public discussions about the mental health issues affecting Guyanese, to cause de-stigmatization of mental illnesses, and to ensure that individuals with mental health problems can eventually access treatment and support services in an efficient manner.
Speaking at a health fair which was hosted recently to mark the observance, Minister Ramsaran noted that efforts are underway by his Ministry to create a “full-fledged, self-respecting, real and genuine mental health unit.”
“We are hoping to have it attached to the Non-Communicable Disease unit (NCD unit),” the Minister said. He noted that they are in the process of getting the staff together to facilitate this unit.
According to Ramsaran a draft of the Ministry’s mental health plan was presented to Chief Psychiatrist of the Georgetown Public Hospital Dr. Bhiro Harry during the observance at an intimate setting which marked the observance.
The Minister said that the presentation was made in front a small gathering at the Ramphal House, the audience included two psychologists both foreign trained; one a foreigner and one Guyanese who trained in Cuba, who he hopes will be attached to the unit.
Last Thursday, to help raise awareness about the seriousness of Mental Health issues, the Ministry of Health hosted yet another mental health presentation under the Theme: “Shaping Guyana`s Mental Health.”
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