Dear Editor,

DESPITE high rates of mental illness in Guyana, mental healthcare is still something that many do not see as important. There are many inaccurate ideas about what mental illness is, but amongst the most dangerous perceptions is that it is supernatural in nature and that it is something one can easily overcome as long as they adopt the right mindset.

While mental health issues can begin at any point in life and can last for short or extended periods of time, it has been proven that early trauma puts one at significant risk of developing mental health issues later in life. Aggressive behaviour, thoughts of suicide, depression, PTSD etc. occur at much higher rates for those who experience childhood abuse.

It is amongst these reasons that we need to pay more attention to the importance of mental health and supporting children who have experiences of abuse to access mental health support, as it can quite literally save their lives.

Small ways in which we can build and maintain healthy relationships with children is by paying attention to their feelings and concerns. They must be encouraged to share their thoughts and ideas as this not only contributes towards a better relationship between you and your child, but will also aid in them becoming better and more confident communicators. In providing a listening ear and non-judgemental space in which they can explore various topics, parents will help to create an environment that promotes their child’s development and autonomy.

While it is understandable that sometimes caretakers can become stressed under the pressures of providing for and raising children, showing an interest in their child’s life can often make the world of difference. Children who feel as if they cannot speak to their parents or seek out advice are often more at risk as predators actively seek out children who are vulnerable and looking for guidance.

The home should be a safe place for children. A home free of all forms of abuse will teach children about the ways in which they should relate to others and also help them to develop healthy caring strategies for themselves. Given our dismissive culture towards mental health, it is understandable that there is bound to be some resistance towards addressing it and the factors that contribute towards it, but it is very necessary in aiding in the growth of healthy and well-adjusted children and young adults.

Yours sincerely,

Akola Thompson
Blue Umbrella Consultant, ChildLinK
To report or seek counseling, please call 914/227-0979/227-2023/233-3500