Department of Mental Health and Substance Dependence launches its Anti-Stigma Campaign

#TurksandCaicos, March 6, 2023 – On February 27th 2023, the Department of Mental Health and Substance Dependence within the Ministry of Health and Human Services, launched its Anti-Stigma Campaign called “Dismantling Stigma”. Mental Health Stigma is one of the biggest barriers to mental health care. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), “mental health stigma” or “mental illness stigma” refers to the stigma attached to mental health conditions and the discrimination that can happen to people who have experienced them.

Mental health is often stigmatized because of a lack of understanding about what mental health conditions are and what it is like to live with a mental health condition.

Commenting on the launch, Director of the Department of Mental Health and Substance Dependence, Dr. Alicia Malcolm said, “our goal with the Dismantling Stigma Campaign is to shift perceptions and change the narrative regarding mental health conditions in the TCI. No one should ever feel ashamed or be discriminated against because they have a particular condition and seeking help should be as normal as seeking help for a physical ailment or any other issue”.

Minister of Health and Human Services, the Hon. Shaun Malcolm commenting on the anti-stigma campaign said, “Fear, misunderstanding, inaccurate or misleading information all contribute to stigma and discrimination towards those living with mental health illnesses.”

The Minister went on to say that as individuals we hold the power to reverse stigma through education, awareness and reframing our notions of what it means to be different.

Also in attendance was Ms. Stacy Cox, CEO of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association, which is the organization sponsoring the campaign. Ms. Cox noted that, “the fragility of mental health and the daily struggles we can all face came to the forefront for our industry during the pandemic, and many are still reeling in silence. The Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association is excited to partner in educating our citizens that there is no shame in needing help, and that help is available and accessible in Turks and Caicos Islands”.

As part of the launch, which took place at the Providenciales International Airport, the Department unveiled billboards depicting mental health stories of five outstanding individuals who have braved some of life’s most difficult challenges and have willingly shared how they were able to deal with the emotional and mental health aspect of those challenges.

Their stories are inspiring and gives hope to all, that you can overcome or learn to manage any mental or emotional difficulties you may face. The campaign is expected to run throughout the year and there are high expectations that its goal of dismantling mental health stigma will surely be achieved.

For further information on the Dismantling Stigma Campaign, kindly contact the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse at: 338-3613 in Grand Turk, or 338-4737 in Providenciales or visit TCI Department of Mental Health & Substance Dependence or https://www.gov.tc/dmhsd/.