Time to make serious effort to address suicide

Dear Editor,
Guyana has been severely affected by COVID-19. As a result, many lost close ones or have been feeling the effect financially. Many issues also arise, coupled with the confusion arising from the election in 2020 and crime.
Over the years, periodically, Guyana would see a surge in suicides, and whilst many would vent their concerns, little could be done. Incidentally, many of us would see someone displaying abnormal signs and would disregard them without giving a second thought because lots of people are not trained or know how to deal with such issues. Some would even use the opportunity to “add salt to the wounds” of someone who is experiencing mental health issues or some would refuse the help being offered or just be scared to talk to anyone because of the way society works.
Editor, of recent, there’s been an extreme increase of posts flooding social media about mental health, and whilst many are citing others or their observations, some seem to be experiencing the same based on their posts. Of all the posts about mental health, only one person posted information regarding counselling for mental health issues. There are about nine places offering counselling services and only the Ministry of Health is offering their service for free. Many people are willing to seek help for issues affecting them, and some are reluctant to visit the Ministry.  It’s time the Government seriously makes provisions to combat this plague that has been affecting us for the longest time. Get more centres countrywide and ensure the service is free. Guyana always has groups that form, collect grants/loans/monetary donations from all around and do not provide a proper service. Some only seem to surface when it’s time to bid for grants/loans.

Sincerely,
Sahadeo Bates