Aruba November 15, 2020: As part of the Mental Health awareness campaign in October, organized by Fundacion Respaldo and Jordan Ling Foundation, psychiatrist Dr. Nathalie Kingsale revealed alarming data related to this problem on the show ‘Nos Mainta.’
She indicated that the biggest problem here in Aruba is depression and anxiety. These conditions are the most seen at Respaldo’s clinic. And yet, we are finding out more about those who suffer from psychotic problems.
TREATMENT
A patient comes to Respaldo after having gone to their general practitioner because they haven’t been feeling well or because family members think something is wrong. The general practitioner decides when someone needs professional help, Dr. Kingsale indicated. In these cases, Fundacion Respaldo also consults with other institutions, and from these, more people get referred. Everyone with mental health must receive treatment, but it doesn’t need to include medication. It could be psychological therapy. When someone is that far that help is required, this could also be offered at home, depending on the severity.
Dr, Kingsale explained that it is important for family members to receive help and guidance too.
A patient who receives treatment at the clinic may authorize the Respaldo’s FACT-Team to visit their home and talk to their family members. This is because there is a duty of confidentiality.
HERITAGE
She informed that mental health is in some part hereditary. The person must have the sensitivity to become depressed or psychotic, and in this case, the chance is bigger. It is often hereditary, but it also has to do with what someone has gone through. Mental problems cannot be detected as an infant. Some kids are born with ADHD or Autism, which also needs to be treated. Depression, psychosis, or schizophrenia are conditions that cannot be detected in children.
INCREASE IN CASES
During the pandemic of Covid-19, Fundacion Respaldo saw an increase in patients suffering from depression and anxiety. Doctor referrals also increased.
MORE PROJECTS
Fundacion Respaldo exits since 2018, and there is still so much to be done. One of them is ‘protected living,’ where they will receive guidance. Many times the patients want a nurse for 8 to 16 hours to guide and help them. Then these patients can live on their own.
We are working hard on realizing this project.
Respaldo also wants to give institutes like KIA and SABA guidance where there are people with psychiatric problems.
Finally, Dr. Nathalie Kingsale expressed that the community must avoid stigmatizing mental health patients and stop calling them ‘crazy.’ These patients need help and understanding from us all.
