Reach Out Rangers For COVID-19 Mental Health Response Programme
By: , January 21, 2021
Photo: Yhomo Hutchinson
Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton (2nd left), in discussion with Ann Marie Mowatt Carby (right), one of 30 persons who have joined the Ministry's COVID-19 Mental Health Response Programme as a Reach Out Ranger. Occasion was the virtual graduation of the Rangers today (January 20). Others pictured (from left) are: participant in the programme, Shavina Lennon and Director of Mental Health and Substance Abuse at the Ministry, Dr. Kevin Gouldbourne.
Photo: Yhomo Hutchinson
Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton (left), in dialogue with Director of Mental Health and Substance Abuse at the Ministry, Dr. Kevin Gouldbourne, at the virtual graduation of persons who will take part in the Ministry's COVID-19 Mental Health Response Programme today (January 20).The Full Story
The Ministry of Health & Wellness has assigned the first set of Reach Out Rangers to its COVID-19 Mental Health Response Programme, to assist community members who are facing psychosocial challenges.
Speaking at a virtual graduation for 30 persons, Wednesday (January 20), portfolio Minister, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, said another 50 personnel will also be added.
He noted that over the coming months, the initiative will be strengthened with more persons.
The Minister explained that the programme was developed in response to the “emergent need” for such a support, especially among the older population who have been restricted in their movements, and students who have to remain at home, in order to control the coronavirus (COVID-19).
“All of those represent a way of life that oftentimes facilitate mental health challenges,” Dr. Tufton said, adding that there is an increase in mental disorders and depression globally, due to lockdown measures associated with COVID-19.
As a result, the Minister said “special arrangements” had to be made to preserve the mental health of those who need the support.
He encouraged the first batch of Reach Out Rangers to approach the task of helping their fellow Jamaicans with diligence.
“It is an important step you have made,” he said to the Jamaica Red Cross trained personnel, emphasising that they will be walking billboards in their communities, as their T-shirts will identify them with messages on how persons can get help.
“The message is simple, reach out, integrate yourselves in the communities, use your training to assess where the issues are, offer a listening ear, give some guidance, make recommendations, and give support where it is necessary,” the Minister said.
Where it is necessary, the Rangers will make referrals of persons who need attention from professionals at health centres.
Dr. Tufton reported that response to join the programme has been “overwhelming,” with over 150 persons so far requesting to offer their services. They are currently being vetted.