Dear Editor,

Today I write to you with a heavy heart but the deepest conviction about something that affects all of us — mental illness.

It is a challenge that can touch anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Yet it is often met with stigma, misunderstanding, and silence. Our society needs to understand that mental health issues are real, complex, and deserve our attention, compassion, and support.

Mental illness can stem from a variety of causes, including genetic factors, trauma, stress, or imbalances in brain chemistry. Sometimes it may be triggered by a life-changing event or an accumulation of stress that one cannot cope with. However, one thing is clear: Mental health is just as important as physical health.

When someone is struggling mentally, it can often feel as though his/her world is crumbling. Thoughts, emotions, and perceptions can become distorted, making it difficult for him/her to navigate his/her daily life. And without the right support this can lead to dangerous consequences, not only for the individual but their loved ones as well.

I beseech us, citizens of this great community, to recognise the signs of mental distress in our family members, friends, and neighbours. Early intervention is key. By acknowledging that someone is struggling and offering him/her help you can change the course of his/her life and even prevent harm to self and/or others. Untreated mental illness can lead to severe outcomes — self-harm, violence, or even death. But with support, counselling, and the right treatment, people can regain stability and lead fulfilling lives. Approximately two years ago I was attacked and hurt by a mentally ill person. I am alive just by God’s grace and mercies

It is vital to remember that we all face challenges in life. Each of us goes through moments of difficulty and hardship; however, not everyone is mentally equipped to handle these challenges in the same way. Some of us have the ability to bounce back quickly, while others may need extra help to navigate the rough waters. Mental illness should not be ignored or dismissed as a mere sign of weakness. It is a medical condition that requires empathy, attention, and action.

I have had the privilege of supporting people with mental illness by working closely with the staff at the St Ann’s Bay Mental Health Department. I commend nurse Brown and her team who responded to numerous calls which prevented mentally ill individuals from harming primary school students. I see at least five new mentally challenged people in Ocho Rios on a daily basis. I am, therefore, encouraging the St Ann agencies to collaborate and remove these people from the streets. The number of mentally ill people on the streets of Ocho Rios is an eyesore and gives the world a bad impression since this is a tourist hub.

Let us not forget that only by God’s grace and mercy do we continue to thrive each day. Many of us have faced trying times, yet we are here because of divine intervention, support from others, and the strength we’ve drawn from our faith. If you are in a position to help someone in need, please do not hesitate to offer your support. Encourage them to seek professional care, whether through counselling, therapy, or medical treatment. Help is available, and it can make a world of difference.

I am imploring citizens with mentally ill relatives to get help for them and stop saying they are not going to hurt anyone.

I urge all citizens of Jamaica to stand together as one community to offer a hand to those who are struggling, especially when they may not have the strength to ask for help. It takes a village to heal, and we all play a part in making our community stronger and more compassionate.

Sharlene Bailey

sharlenebailey2015@gmail.com