The Conversation About MENTAL HEALTH and MENTAL ILLNESS Needs To Be Had

If you were to ask the Guyanese population why we shy away from any discussion on mental health and mental illnesses, there would undoubtedly be varying answers, but the overriding consensus would be that there is a stigma attached to these words. Culturally, we have been conditioned to downplay the seriousness of mental health issues largely because of a lack of knowledge. There is also an unwillingness to be educated on this seemingly taboo subject although there is evidence that it permeates our society and has affected every family in some form or the other.

Physical health and mental health rely on each other despite some biased views. According to Deaconess Audrey Corry, a retired Matron and Director of Nursing, “Mental health is a public health issue.” She pointed out that it is essential to note the thin line separating mental health and mental illnesses. Mental health strives to retain an individual’s entire mental faculty and function. It includes our emotional, psychological, and social well–being and affects how we think, feel, and act. Often mild, like in cases of anxiety, it can be solved with basic help. However, when such issues are left unchecked, are prolonged, or without relief, they can lead to mental illnesses, like severe depression, resulting in self-harm, admission to a psychiatric facility, or long–term therapy.

by Latevia Williams

are very quick to attach medication as the solution.” The church then needs to become a nexus in this fight that affects more and more of our population. She added, “Not only can the church offer prayers, shelter, and necessities like food and clothing, but a place where mental issues can be addressed professionally by trained counsellors.” Minister Thompson stressed that the church must first begin by educating its community. She believes that by doing so, the barriers of misconception will be broken and discriminatory approaches to those who need assistance will change.

Audrey Corry

Mental health is vital at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. The COVID -19 pandemic has caused an upsurge in cases of mental illness, requiring a greater need for trained professionals in the mental health field. Whether adults or children, being in lockdown has contributed to mental health struggles for many. Deaconess Corry emphasised the need for the formation of programmes to help those struggling — programmmes that will allow them to freely discuss what is affecting them, and also provide them solutions to fit their daily routine, whether their issues are fleeting or prolonged.

Minister Vanessa Thompson, a trained counselling psychologist noted, “We don’t place enough significance on addressing mental health challenges, and when we do address these problems, we

Mental health is not a new issue. There are instances in the Bible where mental illnesses or harmful thoughts are stated. Moses and Elijah, for example, experienced feelings of helplessness and desired death (Numbers 11:10-16, 1 Kings 19:1-18). Further, Proverbs 12:25 (NKJV) states “Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, But a good word makes it glad.” However, good news comes to all who find themselves in that place, since in Matthew 11:28-29 (NIV) , Jesus lovingly encourages us to “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

‘Read your Bible, pray and fast’ has been the traditional response of the church. While it holds indisputable spiritual merit, it must be accompanied by the encouragement to those suffering mental issues to talk about the problems that affect them. As it is acceptable to go to the doctor to address physical illnesses, we must encourage persons when they recognise that they are being mentally challenged to also to seek medical intervention. Minister Thompson added that while providing the appropriate avenues to deal with mental crisis, it is also crucial that the church reiterates that seeking professional mental help is not a sign of weakness, nor does it indicate a lack of faith and trust in God. Like we trust God for our physical health, we should also trust Him for our mental wellness. Minister Thompson pointed out that the church has a role in establishing the support needed to create awareness about mental health. She emphasised it is also important to remember that change may not happen overnight, but over time. is currently underway; this will allow identified leaders to minister continually to those who suffer from mental health issues.

The church has always been a safe haven for those who seek help, and now with trained personnel available to educate, counsel and recommend referrals in the area of mental health, the church can become a viable option for those struggling. First Assembly of God is proactive in its approach to bringing awareness to mental health and destigmatising the issue, not just locally but also in the diaspora.

Since the pandemic, the First Assembly of God Church has made it its mission to offer support to the community through social, physical and psychological assistance. The church continues to advance Children’s Church, Sunday School sessions, and parenting programmes. First Assembly and its outstations, along with other Assemblies of God churches, participated in a mental health training programme before the pandemic. Bishop Dr Murtland Raphael Massiah, foresaw the need for trained individuals, especially in the church. He insisted on mental health focus and partnered with the Ministry of Health to provide relevant education and training. A more focused mental health programme

Research shows that as the conversations and knowledge on mental health and mental illnesses increase, people are significantly less likely to have prejudiced thoughts about those suffering from mental illnesses (Wei, Y., McGrath, P. J., Hayden, J., & Kutcher, S.2015).

Let us begin small by encouraging those who may need help to seek help without judgement and preconceived notions. Let us create conversations about mental health within our circles that can spread into national dialogue and effect change.