In Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname and Guyana mental, neurological and substance uses disorders and suicide account for thirty-one, thirty-two and thirty-one percent of all years lived with disability respectively, and fourteen, sixteen and thirteen percent of total disability-adjusted life years respectively.
It is anticipated that Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana and Suriname will experience greater mental health needs during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
This information is contained in a media release by the Pan American Health Organization on Thursday.
PAHO said the Covid-19 pandemic is not only a threat to physical health, but fear, depression and anxiety, worry about loved ones, joblessness, financial concerns.
It said the impact of containment measures (physical distancing, self-isolation, quarantine and working from home) have all had significant impacts on mental health globally.
PAHO said extreme stressors may induce, worsen or exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions and the risk for suicide.
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