AN INCREASING NUMBER of people living on the streets in Bridgetown suffer from mental health issues. Unfortunately, as a society we have not paid sufficient attention to this health problem, preferring to deal with it as a “hush issue” behind closed doors.
But if there is to be change, then mental health cannot be discussed in the abstract but must become a talking point at the workplace, in schools, churches, social gatherings and certainly in our homes.
One of the problems is that mental illness has not been seen as “another illness”, but unfortunately has a terrible, long-standing stigma attached to it.
Perhaps this is why it is still viewed in much the same way that we once looked upon leprosy and, in more recent times, HIV/AIDS. As a result, we foolishly keep loved ones with mental health issues at a distance.
The change that is necessary will come only when there is openness, education and tolerance.
As a society, we are ignorant about mental illness since we know very little about it and tend to form our impressions and biases based on stereotypes in the media, and oft-repeated falsehoods within the community. We foolishly believe that people suffering from one of the many types of this illness will never be cured, and that they are often armed and ready to go on a destructive rampage. Nothing could be further from the truth.
This is why we need to have a serious national conversation in Barbados on the issue. We must look at how equipped we are in the workplace, in our schools and in our churches to deal with the various facets of mental illness. Importantly, our law enforcement officers need to be trained and have clear policy guidelines for dealing with mentally ill people. The use of brute force is not the answer.
The Government itself will have to play a key role by ensuring the Psychiatric Hospital is properly equipped and provided with the necessary resources and that its personnel are appropriately trained. Anyone having to be hospitalised for mental illness must be given the chance to be fully rehabilitated.
We must move to end the situation where we distance ourselves from others once it’s disclosed that they have a mental health issue.
Yes, not all people with mental illness will be able to cope on their own. But it is important that those who can be helped are allowed to follow the routine as would be required for any other illness. They must be encouraged to lead normal, productive lives. We must not create other societal issues such as homelessness because of this disorder.
Many Barbadians will experience mental illness in their lifetime. Unfortunately, most will go without treatment, because of the fear of stigma. As a society we must be truly compassionate, tolerant and supportive. It must begin in the home.
