Free mental health support available across Saint Lucian communities

Saint Lucia is still working to reduce the stigma around mental health, but you might be surprised to learn that free support options are a stone’s throw away. Nurse Maria Charles told St. Lucia Times at a Suicide Prevention Awareness Fair on Thursday that free client-centred counselling sessions are available in almost every community. Charles, who provides mental health support as part of the Community Health Nursing Services, says the direction of sessions is determined largely by what the client wishes to discuss. (Full details on community mental health support services and other options for individuals seeking accessible and affordable care are provided below this article). She says there are a few things to remember when reaching out for help. Community counselling, for instance, can be viewed as an initial point of contact.

Nurses like herself, who has worked in the field for 17 years, can help address issues such as mild anxiety. If needed, referrals and guidance towards a more clinically suitable support route can also be provided in cases where more intensive care is needed. Illnesses like depression require a clinical psychologist, but this service is not currently available in the community. However, Charles said, “More than likely we would refer [them] to the Mental Wellness [Centre]; their services are free. In some cases, because of the long wait time, we would have to refer you to somebody outside, which is a paid service. ” She says, however, that Turning Point offers a cheaper option, with counselling sessions at $15 per session. Further, Charles spoke about her observations over the years and how mental health support has evolved. She noted that collectively, people have become more open to discussing mental health challenges, though when it comes to…