Much of the public discourse intended to help persons survive the current economic meltdown is ignoring the need for mindset change in Jamaica, says Dr Wendel Abel, head of psychiatry at the University of the West Indies, Mona.

"To effectively cope during these tough times," he said, "will require everyone to take a holistic approach to dealing with the crisis."

This process, Abel declares, starts with a renewed outlook. Without the ability to maintain positive attitudes and behaviour in the midst of uncertainty, he added, "Many will miss out on the myriad of opportunities that have emerged as a result of the downturn."

The psychiatrist was addressing the concerns of some citizens at a recent public session under the theme 'Opportunities in Times of Adversity', hosted by the Jamaica National Group in Ocho Rios, St Ann.

Like many other societies across the globe, the major sources of anxiety cited were job uncertainty or loss, difficulties with meeting mortgage obligations, dwindling savings funds, inadequate health coverage and retirement pools, as well as inflation.

"And while this angst is normal and expected, it places a heavy burden on the psyche and therefore needs to be addressed before one can move forward," Abel added.

He expressed that while obvious solutions to the global recession, such as prudent financial planning, will be critical to survival at all levels in the society, "individual persons, small businesses, corporate bodies and Government must also consider the psychological, social and day-to-day implications that follow, and be in a position to embrace the need for change," he said.

Reframe

"Whether it is a new line of work, a new business venture, shift in lifestyle, or simply doing something you have always done a little differently, persons must reposition themselves to stay afloat in this challenging environment," he said, noting that there are untapped avenues for micro and small businesses.

Citing retired United States football coach and motivational speaker Lou Holtz, Abel proclaimed, "Life is 10 per cent what happens to you and 90 per cent of how you respond to it." He believes that those who will do well when the recession is over are risk-takers who grab opportunities by the horns.

"Be conscious of the need to reimagine, reorganise priorities and reinvent courses of action," he declared.

The doctor diagnosed that distinguishing between "needs and wants" is essential to adjusting to the current changes. "We must grasp an understanding of economic cycles, in that, like life, the low periods are only temporary," he maintained.

Abel's presentation highlighted six steps that can promote a positive frame of mind during this period.

"One must reframe to see the glass as half full rather than half empty. We must actively seek opportunities to do something differently, think positively, reinvent ourselves by thinking and acting outside of the box and let go of self-defeating behaviour and fear," he said.

"Most important," he asserted, "we all need to take care of ourselves by pampering mind, body and spirit. Paying attention to self will boost the self-confidence and willpower we urgently need in these times."

Many will miss out on opportunities. - Abel