On behalf of the Mental Health Caregivers and Patients Association I would like to recognize World Mental Health Day. Every year on 10th, of October, The World Health Organization joins in celebrating the World Mental Health Day. The theme of this WMH-Day 2013 is "Mental Health and older adults."
A day to reflect on the mental health and well being of older people around the world, person centered care for older adults-the "culture change" movement, collaborating with families in the case of elderly patients, caregivers of older adults: challenges and support among some of the growing concerns that caregivers, family and older adults are faced with.
On World Mental Health 2013 the newly formed Mental Health Caregivers and Patients Association in Sint Maarten would like to join all the local or national association such as the Alzheimer Foundation , The Metal Health Foundation in celebrating and promoting active and healthy ageing to ensure the good mental health of older people through lifestyle choices, better social connections and benefits and active citizenship.
This newly formed MHCP-A in Sint Maarten will be taking up the challenge of bringing about closer understanding of mental health. Myths and misconceptions on mental health and the stigma attached to it has only resulted in making those in need of care silent sufferers. This is a reality that can only be changed through education and awareness.
The recent concluded Congress "Transforming Care" is an attempt to aid in the creation of a society where there is awareness and acceptance of mental health.
Our message for the Patients and Caregivers will focus on providing education, programmes, services group therapy sessions and create an open platform to generate awareness by various psychiatrists, psychologists and other clinical psychologist and care givers groups or NGO.
The board of MHCP-A St. Maarten is formed by: President: Mrs Claire Elshot-Aventurin, Secretary Mrs. Myriam Haar and Treasurer Mrs. Minerva Pinto.
Persons in the community interested in joining this association can contact Cel.: (721)-581-8343 or (721)-553-1192
e-mail : mh****@ho*****.com for information and registration.