Bahamas News

Globally, One of Five Persons in the Workplace Will Experience a Mental Health Condition

Published

7 years ago

October 11, 2017

#Bahamas, October 11, 2017 – Nassau – Globally, it is estimated that one out of five persons in the workplace will experience a mental health condition, Dr. Keva Thompson, Consultant on Non-Communicable Diseases, Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) said.

Despite this, there is a lack of awareness of mental health in the workplace, Dr. Thompson said during the opening ceremony of ‘World Mental Health Day’ Symposium hosted by Public Hospitals Authority at Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre, October 10, 2017. She said, furthermore, people with mental illnesses typically conceal their illnesses for fear of discrimination and stigmatization when looking for or keeping a job.

Dr. Thompson noted that the WHO in collaboration with the World Mental Health Federation celebrates World Mental Health on October 10 each year with the objectives of raising awareness of mental health issues around the world, and mobilizing support for mental health. This year’s theme is ‘Mental Health in the Workplace’.

Dr. Thompson said, “Depression in workers is a leading cause of loss of work productivity, sick leave and premature retirement. “Research has found that the treatment of depression results in a 40 to 60 per cent reduction in absenteeism and/or ‘presenteeism.’

“A $1 investment in the treatment of depression or anxiety leads to a return of $4 in better health and the ability to work.”

She explained that mental health problems have direct impact in the workplace through increases in absenteeism, reduction in productivity at work, increase in disability claims, injuries, illnesses, grievances, high turnover of professionals and legal implications.

“Annually, the global cost of mental health problems in 2010 was estimated at US$2.5 trillion; two thirds of this was directly linked to indirect costs.”

Dr. Thompson said those indirect costs typically are absenteeism and lost productivity. Alarmingly, this number is expected to balloon to US$6 trillion by 2030. She said employers should proactively address poor mental health and depression in the workplace to increase productivity, to reduce costs, and more importantly to support a healthier employee base.

The Consultant added that it is important for both the employer and the co-workers to be able to recognize the signs of poor mental health and depression in the workplace.

She explained that employers can become agents of change and promote mental health in the workplace by considering measures such as:

Increasing awareness of mental health issues, and diminishing stressful workplace risk factors;
Developing an organizational climate that promotes well-being and creativity;
Facilitating access to healthcare for employees who may need it;
Being understanding and flexible to the needs of employees, and understanding their personal situations;
Combating stigma and encouraging open discussions in the workplace about mental health.

She said, similarly, colleagues can support those struggling with mental health conditions by making it clear that they want to help, showing they are willing to listen without argument and offering support, while encouraging them to seek professional assistance.

Dr. Thompson pointed out: “If you think for a minute that [a] person is in immediate danger, do not leave him or her alone, but seek help from the emergency services, crisis hotline or a healthcare professional.

“You should also stay in touch with that person and check in and see how they are doing.”

Dr. Thompson said a healthy work environment is important to positive mental health: “A mental health-friendly environment values diversity, offers healthcare that incorporates mental health, has programmes and practices that promote and support health and wellness, provides training for personnel to increase awareness of mental health issues and impact on the workplace, safeguards employee confidentiality, supports employees who seek treatment or require hospitalization or disability leave.

“Globally, the best companies have long [recognized] that employee well-being is a key element in a successful and happy workplace.

“How our employees feel about stress, pressure at work and life balance is integral to the company’s potential for sustainable growth and development,” Dr. Thompson said.

By: Llonella Gilbert (BIS)

Photo caption: Dr. Keva Thompson, Consultant on Non-Communicable Diseases, Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) brings remarks during the opening ceremony of ‘World Mental Health Day Symposium’ hosted by the Public Hospitals Authority at Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre, October 10, 2017.

(BIS Photo/Derek Smith)

Bahamas News

Get your laugh on, March On, family drama by Gea Pierre, debut this weekend in Turks and Caicos

Published

3 days ago

May 13, 2024

Shanieka

Dana Malcolm

Staff Writer

After resounding success in the Bahamas, hit play ‘March On, The Story of Us’ has been inundated with requests to take their show on the road, and the first location they’ll be hitting is Providenciales Turks and Caicos with tickets on sale again this weekend, the show debuts Friday night.

Magnetic Media spoke to Gea Pierre, playwright, who told us the TCI was a natural first choice for the cast and crew where shows are set for Brayton Hall, for Friday May 10 at 8pm and Saturday has two showings; matinee at 4pm and evening, 8pm.

Tickets are $75 VIP. General admission is $60.

“We started ‘March On’ in November 2023 and it was really an opportunity for us to tell a story, the story of the Bahamas and to encompass the nations that we have an amazing relationship with like the Turks and Caicos,” she continued “We really got a lot of people calling [for the play] from [the TCI], so much so we really had to pay attentattention.

The response to ‘March On’ at home and abroad was overwhelming.

“To say it went well is an understatement, even before we opened we got calls from Canada, from all over the US with people wanting us to come and perform.”

And take the show on the road they did! Gea and her team have launched “March On: The Tour” and will be in Providenciales to perform on May 10th and 11th. It’s the first of a number of stops which include Nassau and several US locations.

Online tickets are available for purchase with credit cards. The full team returns on Friday, May 10 with the comedy production being held under the patronage of Washington Misick, TCI Premier and First Lady Delthia Misick.

Describing the close familial relationships between the TCI and the Bahamas, for many on the crew it will be like coming home Gea told us, for others it will be a treat to visit for the first time, the places that their grandparents described.

Gea maintained that the team wanted to keep the show as accessible to residents as possible.

As for why you should come out and see the play, other than the great price point:

“The way that people have responded to it is non stop laughter, people have been moved to tears because there’s some emotion. It does not only lend to Bahamians. It’s a family drama, and anyone who’s ever been a part of a family is going to get something out of it, and something moving.”

Bahamas News

The Bahamas Successfully Hosts Its Fourth World Athletics Relays

Published

4 days ago

May 12, 2024

Shanieka

NASSAU, Bahamas – Hundreds of people from around the world turned out in full force for the BTC World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 that took place at the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium, May 4 -5, 2024.

This is the sixth edition of the relays and the fourth time that The Bahamas has hosted the event, which actually made its debut in The Bahamas in 2014.

President, World Athletics, Sabastian Coe said after three very successful editions from 2014 to 2017, the World Athletics Relays has quickly become one of the World Athletics vibrant competitions, developing a culture of fun and innovation that gives it a unique flavour.

He thanked the Bahamas Government, the local World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 committee and the Bahamian people for agreeing to host the relays. However, his main thanks were to the “world’s best sprinters” travelling from all the continents to compete in preparation for the road to Paris, France, in two months’ time.

During the opening ceremony, the athletes were given words of advice from Carl Lewis, one of only four Olympic athletes to have won nine Olympic gold medals, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest athletes of all time.

He said, “Keep it simple, do not try to do anything extra. Do what your coaches said. Leave on time, leave on time, leave on time.”

The athletes and crowds were treated to the sounds and sights of Junkanoo at the end of the opening ceremony. The Junkanoo performers stuck around for the two days of competitions, playing for the sprinters as they competed on the track.

Teams competed in the Women’s and men’s 4x100m, and the women’s men’s and mixed 4x400m. A total of 14 teams at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 automatically qualified for places at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both days of competition were important, as day two offered another chance for qualifications for those teams unsuccessful on day one.

In fact, The Bahamas was able to take advantage of the second day of competition.

Bahamians were made proud as the country set a new national record during the mixed 4x400m relays thanks to the efforts of 16-year-old Shania Adderley, a student of Tabernacle Baptist Academy.

The team came first in their heat on Sunday evening after not being able to gain a spot for the Paris Olympics on the first day of competition.

Other sprinters on the team included Alonzo Russell, as well as Olympic champions Steven Gardiner and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.

(BIS Photos/Kemuel Stubbs)

Bahamas News

PM at World Relays 2024 Opening: ‘Tonight, the eyes are on The Bahamas’

Published

4 days ago

May 12, 2024

Shanieka

NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Opening Ceremony for the World Athletics Relays 2024, on May 4, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis welcomed the special guests, athletes, officials, and “all lovers of athletics from around the world” to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium here in the “vibrant heart” of Nassau, Bahamas.

“This weekend, the world’s finest athletes gather on our shores to embark on a journey that is not only about speed and strength but also about dreams and determination,” Prime Minister Davis said. “From the serene beauty of our islands to the historic grandeur of Paris, this event marks a crucial path to the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.”

He added: “Here in The Bahamas, we are no strangers to world-class athletics or the warmth and exuberance that such international gatherings bring. It is a distinct honor to once again welcome the World Athletics Relays back to our islands. This event holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing a bridge between nations brought together by the universal language of sport.”

Prime Minister Davis noted that that year’s theme, “Paradise to Paris,” captured the essence of that journey.

“It is here, amidst the splendor of our sun-kissed beaches and the rhythmic sway of our palms that the chase towards Olympic glory begins anew,” he stated. “We are thrilled to offer a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, where every sprint, every baton pass, and every victory lap is set against the picture-perfect canvas of our islands.”

He added: “To our athletes, I say this: as you stand on the precipice of your dreams, ready to catapult yourself into the annals of history, know that you are part of a legacy of excellence and determination. This weekend, you are not only competitors but also ambassadors of your countries and the spirit of sport. We are especially proud of Team Bahamas, who carry the weight of their performance and the hopes and pride of our nation. You embody the spirit of The Bahamian people, and we are behind you every step of the way.”

Prime Minister said that to the international visitors, he extended “the warmest Bahamian welcome”.

“Over the next few days, as you revel in the thrill of competition, take a moment to bask in the beauty of our island,” he stated. “Discover why we proudly say, “It’s Better in The Bahamas.” Whether it’s the hospitality of our people, the tranquility of our waters, or the rhythm of our culture, you are in for an experience that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul.”

“Let us celebrate the unity and friendship that sports foster, cheering every athlete and savoring the spectacle of human potential at its best,” Prime Minister Davis added. “I hope the races are swift, the results are inspiring, and the memories are lasting.

“Welcome to The Bahamas, the paradise where champions chase their dreams to Paris. As your host, it is my immense pleasure to declare the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 2024 officially open. Let the games begin.”