DESERT Flower-Guyana, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) hosted its second annual mental health walk on Saturday last in Georgetown.

The general aim of the ‘Glow for Mental Health – Out of the Shadows Awareness Walk’, was to bring awareness to mental health issues, while also empowering individuals and communities to take action. Additionally, it symbolised the journey towards understanding, compassion, and support.

The walk was a powerful reminder that, together, the stigma surrounding mental health can be dispelled, and a brighter and more empathetic future for those suffering from this condition can be created.

Cilandell Glen, the founder of Desert Flower- Guyana, in an interview with this publication noted that the walk is more than just an opportunity to raise awareness about mental health. She explained that it is about building genuine connections, offering a safe space for dialogue, and uniting persons from all backgrounds in their mutual dedication to mental well-being.
What was unique about this year’s walk was that it was held at night. This further emphasised the ‘glow’, as it represented the illumination of mental health illnesses which are often hidden in the dark and blanketed by secrecy and stigma.

Glen said the nighttime walk carried a deep level of symbolism that spoke to the heart of the cause, in that it was a deliberate choice that is linked to the origin of the event.
It was pointed out that mental illness is often associated with solitude, isolation and the feeling of being alone in the struggle.

Mental health challenges can leave the affected person feeling as though they are navigating their inner turmoil in the shadows, far from the understanding and support that they need.

The nighttime walk changed this narrative, and brought individuals together, regardless of personal experiences and backgrounds to stride boldly through the darkness with their illuminated glow-sticks as a united front.

This year’s walk, which was held under the theme, ‘Create Hope through action’, saw over 200 persons participating.

Among the organisations represented were Cysterhood Support-Guyana, Evolve Business Solutions Inc., The Art of Well-being CCP, and the Urban Oasis Beauty Salon.