THE Ministry of Health’s Mental Health Unit, in partnership with the International Development and Relief Foundation (IDRF) and the Ministry of Education, hosted a Suicide Awareness and Prevention Workshop at the University of Guyana, Tain Campus, Berbice, on Tuesday. The event, held in observance of World Suicide Prevention Day, focused on this year’s theme: “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.”

The workshop emphasised a holistic and multi-sectoral approach to suicide prevention, aiming to promote mental well-being across diverse segments of Guyanese society. The event attracted approximately 86 participants from various communities in central, upper, and lower Corentyne, Region Six. Attendees included teachers, school guidance counsellors from the Ministry of Education, primary healthcare staff from the Ministry of Health, as well as civil society and religious leaders.
During the workshop, participants received critical training on suicide awareness and prevention, along with instructions on using Mental Health Screening Tools. These tools are designed to help identify at-risk individuals, recognise contributing factors, and know when to refer people to specialised mental health services for support and care.

Key officials in attendance included Dr. Timothy Morgan, Director of Mental Health, Ministry of Health; Mr. Akash Persaud, Senior Guidance and Counselling Officer, Ministry of Education; Dr. Vishalaya Sharma, Regional Health Officer, Region 6; Ms. Shameena Haniff, Country Manager of the International Development and Relief Foundation (IDRF); and Dr. Mark Constantine, Clinical Psychologist from the Mental Health Unit.
Dr. Morgan, in his remarks, highlighted the importance of building stronger, collaborative partnerships across different sectors to combat the rising rates of suicide. “Suicide prevention cannot be the work of one group or entity alone. It requires a collective effort to promote mental health and create a supportive environment for all.”

The workshop comes at a crucial time, with the increasing emphasis on community-based mental health support and the need for more comprehensive strategies to address mental health issues across the country. By equipping educators, healthcare workers, and community leaders with the tools to recognise and address suicide risks, the Ministry of Health aims to create a safer and more supportive environment for individuals dealing with mental health challenges.
The event represented a continued effort by the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, and IDRF to strengthen suicide prevention efforts in Guyana, fostering a more understanding and supportive environment for those in need.