Psychosocial support is critical amid COVID-19 pandemic, says PM Mitchell

Grenada: Prime Minister, Dr Keith Mitchell, has stressed the critical role of psychosocial help during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As he advanced his series of meetings with various groups of public officers, Dr Mitchell stated the tremendous value of this special service cannot be over-emphasised, particularly during this period when many are encountering grief and changes to their socio-economic situations. Speaking to parts of the psychosocial support unit and other staff of the Ministry of Social Development on Wednesday, Dr Mitchell stated, “This is a very challenging time for everyone. No one was ready for the level of difficulties we are encountering. We are in unchartered territory and a lot of our public officers on the frontline, particularly our nurses and police officers, are facing a severe challenge, so there is clearly a need for psychosocial support." He further added, "Our health professionals are confronting an unprecedented number of daily deaths, people are dealing with the death of family members and associates and many are also faced with drastic changes in their financial condition, all of which are significant stressors on the human psyche and they require help to cope.” Dr Mitchell lauded the team of counsellors and psychologists who are performing beyond the call of duty in assisting the nation's people during this critical period.

The Ministry of Social Development now gives a 24-hour service for persons needing psychosocial assistance.

The Prime Minister recognises this as an area that qualified persons in the diaspora can simply contribute to.

He stated, “This is truly an area of untapped resources."

Grenada has received several proposals of support from people concerned about Grenada's prevailing situation, "and I believe the time is appropriate to issue a call for help in the field of psychosocial assistance as these services can be rendered virtually.

The small unit of persons we have at present, while I appreciate their commitment, they simply cannot address the heightened need in the nation right now.

"We must do whatever we can to develop this field of service at this time."

Dr Mitchell also acknowledged other areas of support given by the Ministry of Social Development, remarking that this particular ministry has a significant role to play in addressing the requirements of the most vulnerable and contributing to the overall development in the quality of life amongst Grenadians.

Wednesday’s meeting was also attended by the Minister for Social Development, Delma Thomas and Permanent Secretary in that Ministry, Chrissie Worme-Charles.

They both complimented staff for their continuing commitment to the duty at hand and appreciated the Prime Minister for launching the action as a show of support for public officers amid this challenging time.