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From:TheBahamasWeekly.com Bahamas Information Services Updates
Nassau, Bahamas - The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) partnered with the Ministry of Health (MOH), the Bahamas Psychological Association (BPA) and the Healthy Bahamas Coalition (HBC) to host a media forum under the theme “Are we depressed? Telling stories of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Disasters through Bahamian media” at the University of The Bahamas, Monday, February 24, 2020. The purpose of the media forum was to provide media journalists with the background of what is mental health psychosocial support (MHPSS), its application in disaster situations and the national MHPSS response before, during and after hurricane Dorian.
The background should inform the media’s development of stories about mental health services that were provided, and continue to be available, to help affected persons better cope with the psychological impact of the disaster. Additionally, the forum endeavoured to raise awareness, and reduce stigma in seeking mental health assistance. The main guest speaker was Dr. Emmanuel Streel, Mental Health Expert, PAHO. There was also a panel discussion led by mental health professionals in the country. Pictured from left: Dr. Philip Swann, Mental Health Focal Point, MOH; Dr. Keva Thompson, Non-Communicable Diseases Consultant, (PAHO/WHO); Dr. Wendy Fernander, National Focal Point for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Disasters, MOH; Dr. Erica Richardson, Bahamas Psychological Association and Dr. Richard Adderley, Assistant Professor, UB. (BIS Photos/Derek Smith)
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