The Editor, Sir:

Like many, I was horrified and saddened by what is happening to so many children with regards to emotional, psychological, physical and sexual abuse. However, every time I see these types of articles, I become angry at the general population for not doing more to protect its children.

Mental health issues are still taboo in Jamaica and the people must wake up about it. I have heard so many excuses from people regarding their loved ones and their mental issues. Some say they are just wild, some just say they're bad, some say it's because someone didn't love them, they've been on their own, someone did them something, voodoo, etc. Yet again, the families are not trying to help these people.

Not enough

Prayer, bush tea, diet, etc, sometimes isn't enough. Many of these sick people need medication and/or hospitalisation, they have an illness. When we are ill we go to doctors seeking help ... mental illness is the same.

I am asking the public to please stop their selfishness about the embarrassment of admitting that a loved one is mentally ill. To me, it is better to be uncomfortable about doing something about it, than to be known as the family of a murderer, paedophile, etc.

To the Government, please start radio and TV ads regarding mental illness, how to identify it, what to do about it and where to go for help.

I am, etc.,

STEPHANIE WEIS

stephynegril@yahoo.com

Orlando, Florida

Via Go-Jamaica