Dear Editor,

The constant discourse surrounding mental health remains quite relevant as a topical issue in our society today.

Oftentimes we tend to centre these conversations around the fact that mental health is important and it is the lesser privileged citizens who experience it. But have we ever thought about it on the basis of accessibility and availability to treatment and other services? As Mental Health Month is observed worldwide, it is important to bring attention to the pressing issue of mental health in Jamaica, which is often overlooked or tossed aside.

Mental health challenges affect individuals from all walks of life, and it is crucial that we recognise the necessity to address the mental health needs of all people, regardless of their age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or other individual differences.

Although a prominent topic of conversation, mental illness is not really seen or treated as something serious and this, therefore, causes victims to self-diagnose and ultimately become afraid to access treatment within public health-care facilities due to the attached stigma. We have indeed borne witness to the large number of tertiary students who make constant complaints about being overwhelmed or pressured during school, and this is a matter of grave importance.

Up to 75 per cent of people with mental illnesses start experiencing symptoms before they are 24, and beginning at a young age predicts recurrent episodes and long-term persistence. Additionally, adolescents experience individual- and community-level barriers, such as poor mental health literacy, unawareness of available resources, a preference for self-reliance, concerns regarding confidentiality or anonymity, scepticism about resource effectiveness, and stigma. Mental health is not selective as to who its victims are and we have seen a change in the narrative in which not only adults are being affected by this issue but more so a very large number of youth.

Similarly, research shows that individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ are at higher risk of mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and suicide. This can be attributed to the societal stigma and discrimination they often face, which can lead to internalised negative beliefs and self-doubt. Therefore, it is essential that we promote acceptance and support for LGBTQ+ individuals to break down these societal stigmas and social ills.

Additionally, societal and cultural norms also impact individuals’ mental health. For example, women are particularly affected by gender roles and expectations which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic owing to the increase in domestic and care responsibilities. Therefore, to effectively alleviate this we must first address the socio-economic and cultural factors that it accompanies and provide avenues for support as necessary.

It is also important to note that mental health challenges do not discriminate based on gender or sexual orientation. Men are less likely to seek help, leading to increased rates of suicide. Breaking down societal expectations of masculinity and encouraging men to seek help when needed is crucial in addressing this issue.

If nothing has, the COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the importance of mental health and how the neglect thereof can lead to detrimental effects in the medium to long term. Isolation, uncertainty, and loss have taken a toll on individuals’ mental health. Therefore, it is crucial that we prioritise mental health and support individuals in need during these challenging times.

Lamar Grant

Policy and advocacy manager

TransWave Jamaica

lamar@transwaveja.org