“Mental illness and learning disorders can attack anyone,” school psychologist 
Brenda Fahie told a dozen mothers gathered in the Francis Lettsome Primary School music room last week.
Ms. Fahie and others at the Community Mental Health Clinic have been spreading this message and other realities of mental health throughout the Virgin Islands for the month of May, which is observed around the world as Mental Health Month.
“We’re trying to decrease the stigma,” Ms Fahie said. “We need to understand that there’s no shame in trying to get help, and ignoring it is not an option.”
So what is mental health? It includes being self-confident, being able to cope with life’s challenges, and being able to have positive thoughts and feelings, Ms. Fahie told the parents in her talk.
Health and Social Development Minister Ronnie Skelton had a similar definition during his address to kick off May as Mental Health Month in the VI.
Mental wellness, Mr. Skelton said, is “when you can realise your own abilities; you can cope with the normal stresses of life; you can work productively and fruitfully; and you are able to make a contribution to your community.”
See the May 31, 2012 edition for full coverage.