Dear Editor,
I take note that the Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, recently re-emphasised the importance of mental well-being. He succinctly stated that “Mental health is integral to our well-being, yet it is often overlooked or stigmatised.” And as we all know, this is a global reaction. He added that “In Guyana, like in many other countries, mental health issues affect individuals, families, and communities, impacting every aspect of life.” This outlook is in sync with the World Health Organization (WHO), as it sees mental health as a “state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.”
What is very commendable is that the government is very committed to prioritizing, promoting, and protecting mental health. Its focus is on preventing mental disorders and ensuring that mental health services be accessible to all, no matter the location. This is indeed quite necessary and urgent, as mental health statistics in the world show that some 100 million people are living with a mental disorder (with anxiety and depression being the most common), leading to health conditions that cause difficulties in all aspects of life, including relationships with family, friends and community. They can also lead to problems at school and at work.
So, what is the Ministry of Health’s response? It has teamed up with the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organi-sation (PAHO/WHO) to develop the National Mental Health Action Plan 2024-2030. This plan, as outlined in the press, details a “… comprehensive framework for addressing the country’s mental health needs, focusing on ensuring access to quality services and safeguarding the rights of those with mental disorders.” After all, the goal of the WHO Special Initiative for Mental Health is to ensure universal health coverage, involving access to quality and affordable care for mental health, neurological and substance use conditions for 100 million more people.
In Guyana, this is the current direction too, as the thrust of the action plan is “ … the implementation of the Mental Health Protection and Promotion Act which mandates the establishment of all necessary authorities, and bodies required to enforce mental health laws. This is including the training of mental health teams across the country’s health regions.” This is a big undertaking and it is comforting to know that the country’s various teams will be trained under the WHO Quality Rights programme, which promotes a ‘whole-of-society’ approach to improving mental health. This means that the government will push for these vulnerable citizens to be afforded safe communities that are accepting, supportive and free of violence, and living in housing that is clean and well maintained.
When it comes to the monetary aspect to pull off this, “… a minimum of 5 per cent of the national health budget to mental health services will be utilised,” and this translates to a significant amount. Let’s recall that the 2024 National Budget earmarked some $129.8 billion for health overall. Involved in this input is the “… promise to invest heavily in objectives such as the expansion of diagnostic services countrywide; adequate procurement and supply of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies and expansion of the range of medical personnel and services.” In 2023, the figure was $90.2 billion, and the jump will now allow for ongoing efforts to expand and enhance health facilities and diagnostic capabilities across the country.
Editor, Guyanese can help create a healthy atmosphere for the mentally affected. There is the ongoing national mental health information and awareness campaign that is aimed at reducing stigma and discrimination against those with mental health conditions. Even as the Ministry of Health is leading the way, citizens can offer psychosocial support that promotes mental health and well-being. This support can include helping people understand and use healthcare and community services, advocating for basic services and security, and supporting community networks, social groups, and social service organizations.
This will go a long way for what Guyanese are really advocating, that is, a society without divides and discriminations of any sort.
Sincerely,
HB Singh
