At a time when many continue to frown on mental illness in Jamaica and other countries across the world, several students from schools in St Ann and St Mary received lessons on mental health at a recent seminar hosted by the Jamaica Observer at Ferncourt High School in St Ann.

The O bserver partnered with Dr Gary Rhule, a medical doctor and writer, to provide students, teachers and guidance counsellors with information on mental illnesses that affect people.

Principal of Ferncourt High School, Reverend Lenworth said at a time when many students are suffering from post-traumatic disorder in schools, mental health awareness is necessary.

Dr Rhule, who has had family members suffer from mental illness, presented on the many sides of the issue.

The students’ response to questions at the end of the presentation was an indication that they learned much from it.

The seminar also focused on English literature and English teacher Jade Cross said it was good that the students were getting a session in English literature as the focus is usually on English language.

Principal Lenworth also lauded the Observer for its focus on English literature. He said the forum comes at a time when children across the country were not performing well in the subject area.

The seminar was one of three held by the Observer. Seminars were also held in Kingston and Westmoreland.

Schools were offered copies of Dr Rhule’s book Sailing on Broken Pieces: Essential Survival Skills for Recovery from Mental Illness.

Kesi Asher, business development and marketing coordinator at the Jamaica Observer, said the seminars were successful as the objectives to make students aware of mental health and to engage students in English literature were met.

Blingers Claremont and COK Sodality Co-op Credit Union were among sponsors for the seminar.