–initiative aims to train approximately 800 ‘community gatekeepers’

IN a significant stride towards addressing Guyana’s suicide epidemic, the International Development and Relief Foundation (IDRF), in partnership with Guyana’s Ministries of Health and Education, proudly announces the successful completion of the Gatekeeper Suicide Prevention training for Regional Mental Health Leads (RMHLs).

The intensive 5-day training, a crucial component of the “Safeguarding the Human Dignity & Rights of Populations At-Risk for Ill-Mental Health in Vulnerable Communities across Guyana” (SPAR) project, funded by Global Affairs Canada, was led by Canadian Clinical Psychologist and Technical Lead, Dr. Tayyab Rashid.

Held from February 16th to the 20th, the training covered vital topics including suicide prevention strategies, mental health disorder understanding, identification of at-risk individuals, crisis intervention, and self-care techniques for helpers.

Moreover, RMHLs were equipped with skills in effective supervision, confidentiality, ethical considerations, and the Training of Trainers (ToT) approach. They were also briefed on the project’s monitoring and evaluation strategy.

The comprehensive training is a cornerstone of the broader SPAR project, aimed at bolstering mental health services in communities, schools, and the public health system across Guyana. RMHLs, carefully selected in consultation with regional officials, are now prepared to bolster mental health services within their designated regions, supporting survivors and aiding Community Gatekeepers in gathering crucial mental health data.

The initiative aims to train approximately 800 Community Gatekeepers, including healthcare workers, community leaders, and religious figures, such as pandits, imams, and pastors, to complement existing mental health services, especially in remote areas.

The SPAR project closely aligns with Guyana’s Ministry of Health’s Mental Unit and Regional Health Officers to ensure strategies are in line with government policies and priorities for mental health.

Nabil Ali, COO at IDRF, expressed excitement about the milestone, stating, “This collaborative effort between IDRF, the Canadian government, and Guyanese authorities is a testament to our shared commitment to address mental health challenges and promote well-being in vulnerable communities across Guyana.”

With the Gatekeeper Suicide Prevention training concluded, the SPAR project is poised to continue its impact with the Regional Suicide Prevention Training scheduled to commence in early March. This initiative signals a collective effort to combat mental health crises and promote resilience in Guyana’s most vulnerable populations.