Post-Hurricane Mental Health Assessments Completed Across All Regional Health Authorities

Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, has reported that rapid needs assessments for mental health and psychosocial support have been completed across all four Regional Health Authorities, following the passage of Hurricane Melissa on October 28.

He further informed that psychological support has been extended to healthcare workers in the affected parishes through in‑person sessions with psychologists.

The Minister also advised that additional in‑person interventions are planned, complemented by virtual support coordinated through the Jamaica Psychological Association and the Jamaica Psychiatric Association.

“At the same time, PAHO (Pan American Health Organization) is providing technical support through a visiting Mental Health and Psychosocial Support expert who is assisting the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Unit in coordinating and facilitating mental health and psychosocial support in the affected communities,” he stated.

“What we are going to do between the public health workers, community health aides, vector workers and the mental health teams is, we are essentially sensitising that army of about 3,000 healthcare workers. When they go into the field, it is not just about vector control or food spoilage and inspection; it’s about showing some understanding for those who have been impacted, who they will have to come in contact with,” Dr. Tufton added.

He made the announcement during a recent sitting of the House of Representatives in November.

The lion’s share of Hurricane Melissa’s impact on the health sector has been borne by the Southern, Northern, and Western Regional Health Authorities, encompassing the parishes of St. Elizabeth, Clarendon, Manchester, St. James, Hanover, Westmoreland, St. Ann, and Trelawny.