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By Deslyn A Joseph
As Antigua and Barbuda joins the rest of the world in recognizing World Mental Health Day on October 10, clinical psychologist Regina Apparicio is issuing a call for the nation to increase its engagement and “be more present” in the lives of loved ones, stressing the urgent need to look out for subtle but serious signs of mental distress.
Speaking to Observer Media in support of this year’s observance, Apparicio identified a shift in mood or behavior as one of the clearest signs that someone may be struggling emotionally. She detailed several key indicators for which family members and friends should be vigilant. These include: an outgoing person suddenly becoming withdrawn, an individual experiencing heightened use of substances and suffering major losses, low moods, or chronic depression; a dramatic shift toward an overly excited and elevated mood that is uncharacteristic and “not explainable,” suggesting they have unhealthily “made peace with their circumstance,” she said.
The psychologist stressed that signs are often not overt. “It might be as simple as someone expressing that they feel like others would be better off without them,” Apparicio said. “These thoughts can be very subtle, so we need to stay present and aware.”
Apparicio emphasized that community members must prioritize mental well-being, just as they do physical health. “We need to be more present in the lives of the people that we care about so that we’re not assuming we’re not attacking,” she advised. The approach should involve asking people genuinely if they are okay, and then offering to help them reach out for support.
Crucially, Apparicio stressed the importance of listening without judgment, avoiding harsh religious or cultural criticisms, and recognizing that people cope differently based on their emotional and social resources.
If a loved one is struggling, the responsibility lies in connecting them with the appropriate level of care, “whether it be a mental health provider, a treatment facility, especially if there is substance use involved, and even getting acquainted with the various emergency response hotlines as well, should their loved one battle with suicidal thoughts. And then of course, it’s important not to judge,” Apparicio stated.
The clinical psychologist concluded by asserting that the same community care shown to those with a physical illness should be extended to those facing emotional and psychological difficulties.
World Mental Health Day, established in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health and supported by the World Health Organization, aims to raise awareness about mental health issues, reduce stigma, and advocate for access to quality mental health care for all. It serves as a call to action for governments, communities, and individuals to treat mental health as a priority, equal to physical health.
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