Covid-19 pandemic shows need for mental health policy

A recent study on the mental health challenges Barbadians face in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic has reinforced the need for a robust mental health policy and strategy.

The study was conducted by the principal consultant of 246 King Consulting, Jolene King and Dwayne Devonish, professor of management and organisational behaviour at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Cave Hill Campus.

Ms King, who is also an occupational psychologist, spoke to CBC about the findings and recommendations of the study.

She says of the 450 respondents, 70 per cent suffer from issues like moderate to severe anxiety and sleep deprivation, while 56 per cent identify fatigue, joint pain and generally feeling unwell as their concerns.

Now, there was also the revelation that people in the 18-34 age group experience higher levels of anxiety and social dysfunction.

Ms King says given the findings, a National Mental Health Policy that is based on consistent public information and free psychological and social services is critical.

Tune in to CBC NewsNight at 7 pm for more on this story.