In an effort to foster open discussions among young people about mental health and highlight the importance of seeking treatment, UNICEF Guyana, in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady, the Ministry of Health, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and World Health Organization (WHO), on Thursday, October 10, launched its “Hear Me Out” mental health anti-stigma campaign at the Port Mourant Community Centre Ground in Region Six, a UNICEF release announced.
According to the release, First Lady Arya Ali, who addressed the gathering, stated the dangers of overlooking mental health. “This is an area of health which we continue to mobilise support around and one which is continually evolving, thus making it a more complex issue. In our fast-paced world, we often overlook mental health in favour of other goals and pursuits of life. But it is very important that we deploy stress management techniques and find what works for us best,” she was quoted as saying.“But beyond ourselves, we also have a responsibility around us, our family and friends. Their mental health also matters. We must begin by destigmatising mental health. In a society like ours, that can be challenging, but an allyship like ours will ensure we overcome this challenge, we have the power to stabilise, and we must never forget. That is why today’s activity is so important.”
