In April 2024, the Government of Guyana in collaboration with Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) launched Guyana’s National Mental Health Action Plan (NMHAP) which proposes the decentralization of mental healthcare services. Mental illnesses alter cognitions, moods and behaviours, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. Mental illness does not discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of sex, age, ethnicity, socio-economic status, profession, religion and culture. Determinants of mental health issues are numerous and vary from personal to environmental factors. Mental illness results in social and economic challenges as individuals affected experience difficulty maintaining social relationships, and regular social functioning. The ability to sustain themselves and others through gainful employment is also restricted. This is in addition to the stigma and discrimination experienced and challenges to accessing care. Through the use of a survey and secondary data analyses, this chapter examines the policies, programs, best practices and support systems, which offer mental health services in Guyana, as well as the public’s perspective on mental illness. The findings and analyses of this study may guide policies, helping professionals, individuals and families affected by mental illnesses.

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A Situational Analysis of Guyana’s Mental Health Services

  • Ornetta Waldron,
  • Shonell Smith-Enoe

摘要

In April 2024, the Government of Guyana in collaboration with Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) launched Guyana’s National Mental Health Action Plan (NMHAP) which proposes the decentralization of mental healthcare services. Mental illnesses alter cognitions, moods and behaviours, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. Mental illness does not discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of sex, age, ethnicity, socio-economic status, profession, religion and culture. Determinants of mental health issues are numerous and vary from personal to environmental factors. Mental illness results in social and economic challenges as individuals affected experience difficulty maintaining social relationships, and regular social functioning. The ability to sustain themselves and others through gainful employment is also restricted. This is in addition to the stigma and discrimination experienced and challenges to accessing care. Through the use of a survey and secondary data analyses, this chapter examines the policies, programs, best practices and support systems, which offer mental health services in Guyana, as well as the public’s perspective on mental illness. The findings and analyses of this study may guide policies, helping professionals, individuals and families affected by mental illnesses.