PAHO: The Mental Health Crisis

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – In the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, the global prevalence of anxiety and general depression increased by 25-percent, according to regional health experts. Locally, the situation was no different, as Bahamians battled job furlough, losses, and restrictions on civil liberties.

Kristina Dragovich has more.

The Bahamas was one of those countries under strict lockdowns and curfews over the past two years.

Bahamians lived under more than 500 days of restrictions when covid emergency orders were in place.

PAHO Director Dr. Carissa Etienne says women were impacted more severely than men.

The mental health of essential workers, especially healthcare workers, was impacted by the pandemic, when they may have found themselves facing exhaustion, loneliness, and a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, leading to an increased risk of experiencing suicidal thoughts.

Earlier this year, Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Michael Darville said the government would introduce amendments to the Mental Health Act to support those in need of help.