GG wants a change in culture towards mental health
GOVERNOR GENERAL Sir Patrick Allen has challenged Jamaicans to recognise the value of support systems, to start engaging in more honest and open conversations about mental health, and to foster a culture that embraces those seeking assistance or treatment.
In his absence, Ian Forbes, custos rotulorum for St Andrew, read Sir Patrick’s remarks on Saturday at the Adolescent Mental Health Conference of the #YourMindMatters project, which was held on Saturday at the Jamaica Conference Centre.
In his message, Sir Patrick acknowledged that he was fully aware of the significance of the conference, which “promotes awareness and action towards improving mental wellbeing”, considering the critical role that mental health and well-being played in society.
He went on to say that in order to guarantee everyone’s mental well-being, proactive action is required.
“To do so, we must work t owards improving public attitudes and dispelling the misconceptions and stigma surrounding mental illnesses. We must be supportive in how we treat persons who have mental-health challenges – whether close relatives, friends, or the general public. Each person must be mindful of their response to those struggling with mental illnesses,” he said.
The objective of the conference – held under the theme ‘Ending Stigma, Building Support: Let’s Talk’ – was to provide training and support to Jamaican children and teenagers aged 10 to 19 years, their parents or guardians, school guidance counsellors, and mental-health experts.
It was organised in collaboration with the Ministries of Health and Wellness and Education and Youth and funded by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development office.
CREATE WORLD OF ACCESS
Sir Patrick suggested a few questions that mental-health professionals, experts, stakeholders, and other attendees of the conference should think about.
He stated: “Does stigmatisation prevent mentally ill persons from finding and keeping employment? Do family members provide the necessary support? Do members of the public empathise, abuse, or fear persons because they are uninformed?
“Through our combined efforts, I hope we can work towards creating a world where mental-health concerns are taken seriously and all individuals have access to the necessary support and resources to lead a fulfilling life,” he said.