Dominica’s Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr. David Johnson is calling for more comprehensive programs which will enhance substance abuse treatment services in Dominica.
Speaking at the opening of the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Workshop on Wednesday morning, Johnson indicated that substance abuse is having a major effect on Dominica and is destroying individuals, communities, societies and families.
He noted that studies have shown that there is at present, an early initiation of alcohol consumption among students.
“Students are practicing behaviors which are putting them at risk of developing mental illness. A significant number of students are presented with suicidal faults and attempted suicide,” he stated. “These issues underscore the need for development of policies and implementation of joint programs involving the ministries of health, education, the judicial system, other relevant government sectors, civil society, parents, churches for supporting the development of healthy behaviors by our students.”
Johnson noted further that there is an obligation to strengthen the coping mechanisms of the younger generation and protect them from the use of alcohol and substance abuse.
“There is a need to develop more comprehensive policies and programs for combatting the use of illicit substances and the abuse of alcohol which are destroying our nation,” he noted. “We must strengthen our prevention and health care promotion strategies while at the same time develop our alcohol and substance abuse treatment services.”
He pointed out that a fairly good referral system from the criminal justice system to the treatment services is already in place. However, he said there may be a need to strengthen the legislative framework to ensure that there is compulsive treatment for alcohol and substance abuse as well as strengthening treatment programs in the prisons. Johnson stated further that treatment programs in the communities are therefore essential in addressing the problems related to substance abuse and mental disorder.
Meanwhile, Minister of Health Julius Timothy, stated that the risk of providing cure for patients with mental illness is rising.
“Very little is in place to manage persons with a problem. More reduction has to be our main focus, treatment facilities are very much needed, community based programs must be developed, more persons have to be trained to manage up to date programs in the prisons, schools, health facilities and other organizations, let us increase spending in the area of mental health,” he said.
I keep hearing that a great number, if not most , of the admissions to the Psychiatric Unit, are people who have used or abused drugs.
This MAY be so, but I’m not convinced until someone can show me the blood levels of illegal substances and alcohol in the blood or urine of these people. That service is available on the island.
We make assumptions about a lot of things based on what we hear or see.
Some SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE ias what will convince me. The ministry may soon be throwing money at something which does not exist nearly on the scale on which they’re being told.
There is a AA meeting (Alcoholics Anonymous) in Roseau, Turkey Lane (at present by the Bishop’s Office) Monday and Wednesday Lunch time, 12.30 until 1.30 Each Week. If you want help stopping drinking or staying stopped, come and talk to AA
Meanwhile, Minister of Health Julius Timothy, stated that the risk of providing cure for patients with mental illness is rising.
what does this mean? Mr minster you lost me. why providing treatment is considered a risk?
I dont get what it is you are trying to say and i dont want to pretend that I understand
charity begins at home i would hope Mr Johnson that yous suggestion begins at home eh . mentals wife beating and craziness is the norm, say no more charity begins at home please help your brothers sisters niecies ……….