“Let’s Talk Guyana” mental health campaign launched

The Continuing Medical Education (CME) recently hosted a lecture focused on strategies, techniques and tools to enhance the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of persons requiring mental health support in Guyana, 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 emphasized the importance of addressing mental health concerns, effectively promoting an open dialogue about mental health issues in 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.

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, during his address, underscored Government’s commitment to prioritizing mental health initiatives and improving access to mental health services in the country. He also addressed the country’s high suicide rates, emphasizing the link between mental illness (especially depression) and suicide.
In addition, the minister pointed to recent legislation supporting 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and Promotion Act and the Suicide Prevention Act, which both prioritise the rights of mental health patients, replacing outdated laws and shifting towards a more holistic care approach, rather than institutionalisation.

Canadian High Commissioner Mark Berman, who also attended the event, provided insight on 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. He 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 faces mental health challenges.

Certain facts apply universally, such as higher mental illness rates in young people aged 15-24, and prevalence of different 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 has praised the Government of Guyana, particularly the Health Ministry led by Dr Frank Anthony, for its sustained efforts in addressing mental health through collaborations with local and international partners. Further, he highlighted Canada’s support in Guyana’s mental health initiatives, including through the SPAR project and the use of social media platforms for advocacy.

The opening session also featured remarks from IDRF CEO Mahmood Qasim and Dr. Melissa Mc Donald of the Medical Council of Guyana. The presenters at the CME lecture were 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 which were given opportunity to showcase their products and the unique services they offer to the Guyanese population.
The CME lecture and 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.