Dear Editor,

Increasingly, mental illness is being recognised as a significant public health issue.

Unfortunately, however, a pervasive stigma still surrounds mental illness, leading many to suffer in silence. Often viewed as a personal or spiritual failing, it is frequently dismissed rather than treated as a legitimate health concern. This cultural barrier, combined with limited resources, exacerbates problems such as grief, depression, and anxiety, potentially leading to devastating consequences for individuals and their families.

To adequately support the mental health needs of our population, several key strategies should be implemented:

1) Integrate mental health into primary care: All major clinics and health centres should employ dedicated mental health professionals. These professionals should not only provide referrals but also offer immediate counselling and screening services. Normalising mental health check-ups alongside routine physical health assessments, such as blood pressure monitoring, is vital.

2) Bolster community-based support: By empowering local churches, community centres, and neighbourhood groups, these essential institutions can serve as hubs for psychological first aid. Training community health workers and respected elders in basic crisis intervention can help create accessible and welcoming environments for those in need.

3) Invest in school counselling: As children face unprecedented pressures, every school must have a full-time guidance counsellor. These professionals would provide accessible and confidential support, helping to identify and address stress before it escalates into a crisis.

4) Launch a national campaign to destigmatise: The Ministry of Health and Wellness should collaborate with media houses, entertainers, and sports figures to lead a comprehensive and sustained campaign to change perceptions around mental health. The message must emphasise that seeking help is a sign of strength, thereby normalising conversations about mental wellness across the nation.

Addressing mental health concerns is both a moral and national responsibility. By prioritising mental wellness we can help to uplift those who are struggling and ensure that hope is a tangible reality for all Jamaicans.

Ricardo Smith

Senior educator and social scientist

ricardo.professional.edu@gmail.com