A FEW weeks ago, we celebrated 52 years of Independence as a nation. Based on observation since then, I don’t think that many people know the importance of the occasion, what it really meant and what it should still mean today. Even more so how it plays a role in our general mental health.

It’s important to understand what Independence actually means in the first place. In 1966, Guyanese became independent from Great Britain, This means that we fought for self-governing which has to do with so much more than just patriotism. Sacrifices were made to take responsibility for our own actions, laws, and most importantly, our people.

It was a promise to the outside world and ourselves that we will accomplish much on our own- with our own.

We took on a task to form our own identity – what we think Guyana should be like. This should not be looked at as a political move but rather one of social responsibility to protect and support our own – which means that everyone should care about it. We should all care that a collective decision was made for us to come together and decide our own rulers, laws, markets and what is fair and beneficial to all concerned.

This would and should have resounding mental health benefits as it brings about freedom, flexibility discipline and self-sufficiency. This all leads to pride, self-confidence, feelings of empowerment and overall high levels of resilience. We became our own problem solvers with our own resources and solutions.

Independence, as well as celebrating it, is supposed to bring pride, joy and unity- all things which drastically affect mental health. Pride affects how we cope with life and unity allows us to positively share that or encourage it in others. With unity, there are no limits.

If you don’t feel this way, it is time to make a difference which can allow you to feel that you do have a voice, one that can make a big difference in our community. It is our duty to make everyone feel accepted and supported within their own- our- society – no matter what gender, ethnicity, social status or sexuality. The firmer our foundation, the less likely we are to crumble when the temporary trials of life come our way.

I think we lose focus on the importance of certain things if/when we celebrate it in an unhealthy way. I have heard many stories of the alcohol/drug abuse which leads to confrontation on a day that is supposed to represent unwavering alliance.

There are a few other important things to remember. Even though we became independent as a nation, we did not become independent from each other. Every one of us should feel this way and cooperate with each other for the best outcome in any situation. Instead of not looking out for each other or purposely putting each other down, we show warmth and empathy to our own. If we don’t, who will?

We have both the personal and social responsibility to better ourselves and those around us, especially regarding mental health. We have the responsibility of sharing our own issues so that others feel comfortable doing the same. I appreciate any struggle I have as it helps me to have a better understanding of the struggle of others. People tend to forget that with vulnerability comes the breaking of stigma and discrimination; with that comes a support circle.

We have a duty to learn what help is available within our community and provide the strength and support to access them. Pride in ourselves and community allows us to know what help is available; unity is using our ability to share it with our peers.

It’s important to remember that most of us have the same issues you are not alone in yours- no matter what it is. It’s time to hear and understand the issues of our people.
Practising all the above will allow ourselves and others to feel good about not only what we do, but who we are- a rarity.

I have a tip that has personally helped me to be a better member of my community. I was recently given the amazing opportunity of joining the Rotary Club of Georgetown. Rotary has many principles but one in particular resonated with me- the Four-Way Test.
The Four-Way Test of the things we think, say or do – we must ask ourselves:

1. Is it the truth?
2. Is it fair to all concerned?
3. Will it bring goodwill and better friendships?
4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

A lot of people say that Guyana would have been much better off if we never gained independence. However, that argument is irrelevant as it has happened so it’s our job to make the best of it- whether we agreed with it or not. To be brutally honest, I think, we as a Guyanese community, let each other down every day. If we succeed, we succeed together which means when we fail, we fail together.

I think we need to accept that and focus on how we can possibly move forward with respect, loyalty and generosity. That we accomplish much on our own, with our own. Otherwise, we took back our voice to do what with it?

Thanking you for reading. Please keep sending any topics you’d like to talk about to caitlinvieira@gmail.com Or come in to see me at:

Georgetown Public Hospital: Psychiatric Department:
Monday- Friday – 08:00hrs – 12:00hrs

Suicide Prevention Helpline Numbers: 223-0001, 223-0009, 623-4444, 600-7896
Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always!