THERE is no doubt that the tremendous stigma attached to mental health is what prevents many from seeking professional help. But it is also the fear of the unknown.

We all have a good idea of what is involved when we visit a doctor or hospital for a physical ailment. We are usually familiar with the procedures and generally not apprehensive about what the treatment may entail.

In the case of a mental health problem, we are often faced with ‘unfamiliar territory.’ We deny that there is anything wrong, tell ourselves we can handle it or just doggedly press on, hoping that the problem will miraculously disappear.

The ‘road’ that leads us to a mental health professional is therefore often fraught with indecisiveness and misgivings. We have doubts, thinking “Me ain’t even know wuh dese people does do”, “Ah wonder if dey can even help me?”

The short answer is, “Yes, they can” and the process is a simple one. You make the call, set up an appointment and when you meet the counsellor, you sit and talk. At some government-run clinics you can simply walk in off the street and ask to speak with a counsellor.

As I have explained in previous articles, we first need to admit to having a psychological or emotional challenge that we cannot cope with and need the help of someone trained to do so.
This is the job of a counsellor. Many of us are even put off by the word because we really have no idea what counselling is all about, though we are familiar with the medical profession and aware of the role of a doctor.

Whether a psychologist, psychotherapist or counsellor, all of these practitioners are trained to listen and guide patients to a point where they find solutions to their problems and a way forward.
However, a counsellor may choose to refer persons to the more academically qualified psychologist/psychotherapist if there is need for further consultation and treatment.

As the World Health Organization and mental health experts constantly declare, ‘There is no health without mental health’. This is because your mind is key to your overall health. It controls your body and if unwell will soon begin to affect your physical health.

Mental ill-health has also been linked to social factors such as family breakdown, social isolation, debt and unemployment, as well as physical diseases like diabetes and hypertension.
So, when you take care of your mental health you are also ensuring physical well-being. The two cannot be separated.
In Guyana, in the Georgetown area there is a Mental Health Unit established specifically to deal with persons experiencing mental health challenges.

It is located at 252 Quamina Street, Georgetown and can be reached on telephone numbers 225-0804 and 226-1416.
The Unit also provides information on other facilities located in Region Four and Satellite clinics in various other locations throughout the country.

You can also Google, “Some Mental Health Resources in Guyana’ for a list of persons/groups offering mental health counselling services.
Should you need any further information you can contact me, Vanessa Cort, on WhatsApp, telephone number 619-2848.