The Jamaican government is working with the Church on an approach to provide effective interventions to support the mental health of Jamaicans.
The announcement was made by Prime Minister Andrew Holness at the ‘Heal Families, Heal Nation’ conference held at Kingston’s National Arena this week.
Holness said a public education campaign needs to be launched, not only from the government and the Ministry of Health, but also from churches and other organizations and institutions, to change Jamaicans’ habit of not asking for help when in need. Told.
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“I’m not calling anyone crazy because in Jamaica insanity has a different meaning, but we all, including myself, have heard that opposition leaders sometimes have mental health issues. I’m sure…stress. [and] pressure in my life. “Sometimes when you wake up, you’re just angry and you don’t know why,” he said.
He said working with churches helps because pastors are well-trained to help with a variety of challenges.
In his New Year’s Day address to the nation, Holness advised Jamaicans to keep a close eye on their mental health and seek help if they feel overwhelmed, depressed or unable to cope with their challenges.
Holness said the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting not only people’s mental and physical health, but also their social behavior.
He encouraged Jamaicans to be kinder, kinder, more tolerant and more affectionate with each other this year, amid an increase in violence in their interactions.
