'Everyone can be affected by mental health issues'- Local social worker - Safe Haven Transitional Centre to launch ‘Bridge the Gap Showcase' later this month

JOHNSON'S GHUT, Tortola, VI- “We want the community to understand that everyone can be affected by mental health issues especially in the stressful times that we are living in now with COVID-19 and its adverse impact on the economy,” Acting Social Worker Mr Loren Smith has said, in stressing the point that it should not be one of stigmatisation.

This is why the Safe Haven Transitional Centre (formerly Sandy lane Centre) will be launching its ‘Bridge the Gap Showcase’ later this month to encourage the public to de-stigmatise receiving mental health services.

In a Government Information Service (GIS) press release on May 10, 2022, Mr Smith said the purpose of the showcase is to create a relaxing and entertaining environment where community members can come out and be educated and learn more about mental health issues and services available locally.

Bridging the gap

The showcase also seeks to bridge the gap between mental and physical health, needing mental wellness services and knowing how and where to access these services in the Territory.

“We want the community to understand that everyone can be affected by mental health issues especially in the stressful times that we are living in now with COVID-19 and its adverse impact on the economy,” Mr Smith said.

“Persons who are unable to cope with these drastic changes and associated ramifications can be severely mentally impacted leading to mental breakdowns,” he added.