Saint Lucia commended for comprehensive approach to mental health care
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Contact: Amanda-Faye Clarke
Thursday, March 4, 2010 – The Saint Lucia government continues to receive high commendations from the international community for its determination to realize the total reformation of the island's mental health care services.
Representative of the Dalhousie University and Health Canada, Psychiatrist Dr. Sonia Chechil says, the commissioning of the Saint Lucia National Mental Wellness Centre, is a major step forward in the development of mental health care in CARICOM and the wider Caribbean region.
Dr. Chechil explains that the National Mental Wellness Centre is a model that mental health care professionals the world over will learn from.
“I am encouraged, as I stand here in Saint Lucia, that this approach to mental wellness will stand as a beacon to other countries, to other governments, to other institutions, here in the Caribbean and globally. I believe that Saint Lucia can make a difference and that from Saint Lucia we can learn a different way to provide services to people who are affected by mental illness.”
The National Mental Wellness Centre boasts an array of medical services to ensure optimal health and the total rehabilitation of its clients.
Medical departments within the mental wellness centre include gynaecology, ophthalmology, psychotherapy, and nutrition.
“As a psychiatrist, I am encouraged by investments like these in mental health. Let us not forget to whom we are in service—for the patients, the family, the children, the community impacted by severe neuropsychiatric disorders that affect so many people in our families, neighbourhoods and community,” Dr. Chechil said.
The Dalhousie University has pledged its commitment to the government of Saint Lucia for continued refining of mental wellness services in Saint Lucia. |
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