CME, “Let’s Talk Guyana” target enhancing mental health support in Guyana

Release- A ground-breaking event aimed at advancing mental health support in Guyana took place on July 23, 2023. The event comprised of a Continuing Medical Education (CME) lecture focused on strategies, techniques, and tools to enhance assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of persons requiring mental health support in the country, and the official launch of the “Let’s Talk Guyana” mental health campaign.

The CME lecture brought together esteemed experts in the mental health field and emphasised the importance of addressing mental health concerns effectively, promoting an open dialogue about mental health issues in the society, and training healthcare professionals to better support those in need.

The “Let’s Talk Guyana” campaign, which was held alongside the CME lecture, is a nationwide initiative with a primary focus on combating mental health stigma and discrimination that persists in association with mental health disorders. The campaign seeks to provide vital information on various mental health issues and support mechanisms available in Guyana, encouraging individuals experiencing ill-mental health to seek help and support.

The event was graced by officials who recognised the significance of mental health in Guyana. Honourable Dr. Frank Anthony, the Minister of Health, delivered opening remarks, underscoring the government’s commitment to prioritizing mental health initiatives and improving access to mental health services in the country.

Minister Anthony addressed the country’s high suicide rates, emphasising the link between mental illness (especially depression) and suicide. He also mentioned recent legislation supporting the government’s mental health agenda, including the new Mental Health Protection and Promotion Act and the Suicide Prevention Act, which both prioritise the rights of mental health patients, replacing outdated laws and shifting towards a more holistic care approach rather than institutionalisation.

His Excellency Mark Berman, the High Commissioner for Canada to Guyana, provided his insights into the importance of international collaboration in addressing mental health challenges and Canada’s ongoing commitment and efforts to strengthen ties with the Government to advance the development of Guyanese. His Excellency emphasized that Mental Health has significant global impacts, including in Canada. Approximately 1 in 5 Canadians experience mental illness yearly, and by age 40, 1 in 2 Canadians face mental health challenges. Certain facts apply universally, such as higher mental illness rates in young people aged 15-24 and different prevalence in mental disorders between men and women. Mental and physical health are closely linked, with chronic illness increasing the likelihood of mood disorders.

The High Commissioner commended  Guyana, particularly the Ministry of Health led by Dr. Frank Anthony, for its sustained efforts in addressing mental health through collaborations with local and international partners. He highlighted Canada’s support in Guyana’s mental health initiatives, including through the SPAR project, and use of social media platforms for advocacy.

The opening session also featured remarks from IDRF’s CEO Mahmood Qasim and Dr. Melissa Mc Donald of the Medical Council of Guyana. The presenters at the CME lecture Psychiatrist Dr. Davendra Sharma, renowned for his expertise and dedication to mental health care and Dr. Dheeraj Bansal, Dean of TAU, and a renowned Public Health Specialist. The event also featured pharmaceutical companies, who were given the opportunity to showcase their products and the unique services they offer to the Guyanese populations.

The CME lecture and the launch of the “Let’s Talk Guyana” campaign is a landmark event in the effort to improve mental health support in Guyana. By initiating open conversations, raising awareness, and fostering understanding about mental health, the campaign aims to break the barriers that hinder individuals from seeking the help they deserve.