By Samantha Simon
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A local psychiatrist has been spearheading efforts to raise awareness about mental health issues – while generating funds to build a modern psychiatric facility in Antigua.
Each year, Dr Chenelle Joseph acknowledges Mental Health Awareness Month in May and Suicide Prevention Month in September through initiatives like selling custom T-shirts and, as of this year, wristbands.
One of just two psychiatrists in the country, Dr Joseph says mental illness was for many years “barely acknowledged” and something “you certainly don’t talk about”.
“A lot of people would hide in shame or suffer in silence, and that can sometimes end up in permanent disability or loss of life,” she told Observer.
Through T-shirt sales last year, Dr Joseph was able to raise over $6,000 towards developing hospital and clinic facilities to provide mental health resources for all ages.
However, she estimates needing $2-4 million to acquire sufficient land for the proposed facility.
“I’m hoping, as awareness increases, more people will become interested and we can work together and pool resources to make this a reality so people can get help,” she explained.
She noted that in terms of mental healthcare, from her experience working in the United States, Antigua is “at least 75 years behind”.
Dr Joseph noted that there is currently only one psychiatric hospital in the twin island nation, which is chronically overcrowded, while local outpatient services are lacking with many citizens unsure of where to turn for help. Wait times to see a psychiatrist can sometimes extend for months, she said.
Additionally, the medications available are outdated and often have significant side effects. She said progress in getting the Medical Benefits Scheme to update its approved list of medication had been slow.
Despite these trials, Dr Joseph continues to encourage persons to take care of their mental health, just as they would any other aspect of their health, as often physical and mental health have a direct effect on one another.
“If you’re struggling, go and see a medical doctor,” Dr Joseph advised.
“If physically everything is okay, you would then probably be referred to a therapist or a psychologist or psychiatrist to be assessed to see is it something mental that’s manifesting as a physical condition.”
Dr Joseph encouraged anyone interested in supporting her initiatives to get involved.
“I do not believe I can do this by myself,” she said. “It’s a very big and ambitious project. It takes more than one person.”
She can be contacted at her office at 562-9581 or on her work cell at 464-9095.
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