Rudyard Spencer, minister of health and environment, is urging Jamaicans to get involved in efforts to raise awareness about mental illnesses. Celebrations for Mental Health Week began Sunday. The week is being observed under the theme, 'Making Mental Health a Jamaican Priority: Scaling Up Service Through Citizens' Advocacy and Action', a focus inspired by the theme for World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10.
This form of advocacy, he said, was crucial to reducing the stigma associated with mental conditions, and which have been preventing many people from seeking care.
Spencer said that, in order to reduce stigma, each Jamaican must begin to accept mental illnesses as treatable chronic conditions.
In citing the importance of partnership in achieving Jamaica's mental health objectives, the minister said it was important that strong partnerships be encouraged at all levels "across governments, both international and national, across the public, private and voluntary sectors, with service users and communities, and across different areas".
A number of activities have been organised in observance of Mental Health Week.
In keeping with the theme for this year's celebrations, the activities will focus on empowering citizens to advocate and take action for improved mental health services.
Activities for Mental Health Week
Awareness march through Spanish Town on October 7.
Open day at the Bellevue Hospital on October 8.
Mental health conference scheduled to take place on October 9 at the Grand Palladium Resort and Spa in Lucea, Hanover.
Lunch time seminar at the Ministry of Health and Environment on October 10.
Manchester Health Department will stage a health fair and float parade on October 10 at Mandeville Park.
Community and stakeholder meetings will be held islandwide. Exhibitions will also be mounted at selected parish libraries and health centres.
The week culminates with a gospel concert on October 11, scheduled to take place at the St Elizabeth Technical High School in Santa Cruz.
