The Mental Health Unit will next month launch three support groups to help persons struggling with depression and substance abuse, Director, Dr Util Richmond-Thomas has announced.
According to a statement yesterday from the Ministry of Public Health, Richmond-Thomas said that the support groups will help provide confidentiality, shared experiences and social interaction for persons in need of mental health support.
The Mental Health Unit Director said the three support groups – depression, narcotics and alcohol – when operational will function five days per week, three hours each day (5pm – 7 pm) out of the Unit’s Quamina Street, Georgetown headquarters. Each group will function for 12 weeks.
The statement said that the Mental Health Unit has already trained 20 professionals to manage the support groups to provide depression, anxiety, substance abuse and trauma counselling which will function as a bridge between medical and emotional needs.
Richmond-Thomas said self-harm and substance abuse are two major concerns among Guyanese.
“Self- harm occurs as a result of social stigma and discrimination, which can worsen mental health problems and prevent persons from receiving the help they need. Many individuals who suffer from mental health conditions may have experienced substance abuse disorders,” Richmond-Thomas explained.
She said participants will benefit from practical feedback about treatment options, more knowledge about health, social and economic resources, and will improve their coping-skills to handle their life’s challenges.
The statement added that the Ministry of Public Health has planned visits to far-flung hinterland areas to provide mental health treatment to those in need. The mental health specialist said substance abuse is prevalent in hinterland communities due to the lack of economic and social activities in those areas.
Regular exercise, relaxation and healthy eating are some coping strategies to help achieve positive mental health, Richmond-Thomas said.
