One in four persons treated at Belize's public health facilities suffer from clinically depression. In fact, Belize's mental health experts say mental disorders are far more prevalent than we might think. That's why a new program to distribute what are known as second generation psychotropics is receiving so much attention. The program will see the free distribution of some of the most advanced mental illness medications currently available and for free. Experts say it will result in a measurable betterment in the quality of life for those living with schizophrenia, bipolar disorders and depression. We found out more today.
Orlando Pulido,
"All mental patients in Belize should now be celebrating with joy. Now for the first time in Belize's history patients will be having medications that come with fewer side effects. This will mean that medical health recipients will stick to medication and have fewer relapses. With these newly introduced drugs, combined with adequate family support, people with mental disorders will now lead full and productive lives."
The drugs Pulido speaks about are these which can sell for as much as $12 a pill. That's a fortune for those who have to take a daily dosage, but now, through the efforts of the Ministry of Health, they are provided free as a part of public healthcare.
Hon. Vildo Marin, Minister of Health
"In the entire Caribbean and Central American region only Belize and Panama will now be offering these medications to the patients without costing them a single cent."
According to Pulido it may be free, but it saves money.
Orlando Pulido,
"The costs of not providing mental health services are invariably greater than the cost of the services themselves. The indirect cost through loss of productivity, absenteeism, and suicide far outweigh the direct cost associated with treatment."
And many do need treatment, according to Psychiatrist, Dr. Claudina Cayetano, one in four persons are clinically depressed.
Dr. Claudina Cayetano,
"Actually depression, clinical depression, is considered a 25% of people have depression. So out of every four people there is one that has depression so I wouldn't doubt that among us there must be someone who suffers from depression. Its very common so I think its very important that we recognize that this does happen in Belize and people it's okay to take treatment. What is not okay is to be suffering in silence."
And more than suffering in silence, many suffer under the oppressive cloak of stigma.
Hon. Vildo Marin,
"It is human nature to fear what we don't understand. As such mental illness is feared by many people and unfortunately it still carries a stigma and because of this stigma many people hesitate to go and get help for a mental health problem for fear of being looked down upon and for fear of being called crazy."
And that fear should be somewhat diminished now - with these drugs that will make those who are so easily branded as crazy more functional within society.
Presently, 2,000 receive psychotropic drugs at public health facilities countrywide.
