AS the world recognised World Mental Health Day under the theme: “Living with Schizophrenia”, on Friday, October 10, Minister of Health Dr Fenton Ferguson issued a call for all agencies to get involved in addressing the needs of persons living with schizophrenia.

In a message disseminated to the media, Dr Ferguson said this effort will take a “whole government, whole society approach”.

“I would like to call upon all my fellow government agencies, partners and communities, to work together to improved services and care for people with mental illnesses, especially persons suffering from schizophrenia,” Dr Ferguson said. “Communities need to be supported to increase their awareness and knowledge on mental health to reduce stigma associated with this disorder.”

The message said that, despite the severity of the mental condition, most cases of schizophrenia can be treated, and people affected by it can lead a productive life and be integrated in society.

According to World Health Organisation, there are an estimated 26 million persons suffering from schizophrenia, the release read.

“Schizophrenia imposes an enormous burden on the country. The resources used to offer care include inpatient hospital and outpatient settings in hospitals or clinics,” the health minister said. “Community-based residential care is provided in some nursing homes, group homes, family homes, shelters, and halfway houses.

“Medication for schizophrenia is available through the public mental health services supported by the National Health Fund,” he continued.

Stating that Jamaica has had a long history of providing mental health care and services, Dr Ferguson also pointed out that The Mental Health Policy and Strategic Plan have recently been revised and updated in keeping with international standards.

“There is no health without good mental health.”