Dear Editor
GUYANESE don’t seem to be very familiar with the manifestations of social problems and significant amounts of citizens worry about the implications of getting into other peoples’ business as it relates to mental health issues, such as suicide, abuse, and alcoholism.

They fear they might get hurt and point to several intermediaries being abused, badgered, killed, and so on in this respect. Also, they indicate that family members they seek to help could turn against them, as has been the case in many situations. These are some of the findings of the latest survey conducted by The Caribbean Voice.

With respect to mental health, people in Berbice, in particular, say that patients are treated very badly at the National Psychiatric Hospital, often lacking food and medicines. They feel patients are worse off inside that institution than they are on the outside and would get more assistance outside from family members than in the institution. They also point to a lack of security, as they feel patients easily escape and roam the streets of New Amsterdam in particular, often becoming a danger to other citizens.

The following were the questions and responses:
Would you be willing to volunteer within your community to help deal with suicide and abuse?
Yes (58) No (6) Not Sure (28) No Comment (8)
This compares unfavourably with responses to a similar question in December 2014, when 96% indicated willingness to help with suicide and 66% with abuse. Also, myths and misinformation still hold significant sway, indicating the critical need for concerted, ongoing sensitisation and training.

Regards
Annan Boodram
Caribbean Voice