Mrs. Ann Marie Davis

Remarks by Ann Marie Davis, keynote speaker at 'Conversations & Connections': An Uplifting Dialogue between Mental     Health Professionals and the Community at the Cancer Society of The Bahamas, September 7, 2024.  The  dialogue, organized by UWI Bahamas Women's Health Initiative, was held prior to the September 10 Suicide Prevention "Orange Alert Day."

Keynote Address by Mrs. Ann Marie Davis of the Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister:

"Let me begin by saying that I am truly honoured to not only be a participant but also an attendee at such an important event, Conversations & Connections: An Uplifting Dialogue between Mental Health Professionals and The Community, organized by the University of the West Indies Women's Health Initiative. I want to thank Kaché Hanna for this opportunity to speak with you today.

This brunch is more than simply a chance to “catch-up” or network; it is a call to action for a dire change in our communities and each of our personal lives. We are here to address a vital issue that has remained in the shadows for far too long: the stigma associated with mental health, which has, in far too many situations, discouraged individuals in need from seeking treatment.

The recent rise in reports of suicides and suicide attempts in our country is truly concerning. The anguish and loss that these occurrences cause on families and communities are enormous. It is not an easy topic to talk about, but the less we speak about it and the possible causes, the greater it becomes. And, as someone who is enthusiastic about advocating for the vulnerable in our society, this issue resonates deeply with me.

Mental health is a topic that affects us all, whether directly or indirectly. It is not bound by age, gender, or social status. Everyone is affected. There are some people who walked in here today that are silently burdened, but continue to push. Mental health is just as important to our well-being as our physical health, but it is often overlooked.

In reality, what happens with your mental health can have a direct impact on your physical health and even how you interact with people. Sometimes the stress or trauma that you’re experiencing in your mind, manifests itself into physical pain or causes instances of self-harm. The stigma around mental illness creates an unseen barrier that prevents many from receiving the treatment they desperately need. It invites silence and isolation, allowing the darkness of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues to spread unchecked.

Today, I want to talk about breaking that silence. I'd like to discuss the significance of compassion and community in our approach to mental health. But, more importantly, I want to discuss how we can—and must—do better.

Our society has a long history of hesitation to publicly discuss mental health issues. Too often, persons suffering from mental illnesses are addressed with judgment rather than understanding. Judgment and shame; two key culprits that cause so many people to walk amongst us, in pain. We can only drive those two out by the first two I mentioned. Compassion and community. Judgment and shame vs Compassion and community.

Many times, those that are struggling are urged to "toughen up" or that "it's all in their head." This dismissive approach not only diminishes the gravity of mental health disorders, but also inhibits people from seeking the treatment they need. We must challenge these outdated perceptions. Taking care of our mental health is not a sign of weakness; it is a critical aspect of our overall health.

As I reflect on the work of my office, the Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister, which focuses on protecting the vulnerable and fighting against gender-based violence, I am often reminded that mental health is usually at the heart of these issues. Victims of abuse are at an increased risk of developing mental health difficulties, sometimes later in their lives. The trauma they endure can lead to conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Yet, due to the stigma surrounding mental health, many of these individuals suffer in silence. They are afraid to speak out, fearing that they will not be believed or that they will be judged. This is a tragedy that we cannot ignore. Remember: Compassion and Community. We must create an environment where survivors of abuse feel safe and supported to seek help for their mental health.

Also, there are in some instances, perpetrators of abuse are carving a path of destruction of self and of others because of undiagnosed or unchecked mental health issues.

Ladies and gentlemen, it's also important to recognize that mental health challenges do not always stem from trauma or abuse. Genetic factors, life stressors, or chemical imbalances are other possible reasons for mental health issues to arise. Regardless of the origin, anyone, at any point of their life, can face mental health concerns. This crucial understanding reinforces the need for compassion and community. The support and access to appropriate care for all individuals, no matter their circumstances, are very vital.

Our communities must prioritize mental health education. We must ensure that individuals are aware of the signs and symptoms of mental health difficulties, as well as how to utilize the relevant support. Not only for themselves, but to be educated enough to recognize when others require such resources. We must also lobby for improved mental health treatments, particularly in under-served areas. This is not just a matter of health; it is a matter of LIFE OR DEATH.

The rising suicide rates in The Bahamas are a wake-up call that we cannot afford to ignore. We cannot continue to allow a headline to simply be fodder for debate, discussion, or gossip. The right support and intervention can prevent the tragedies experienced by a life lost to suicide. We have to be better with how we treat ourselves and how we treat others.

In many instances, women simply require medical checks of their hormonal levels. Especially if they are in their menopausal years. Encourage them to take medical tests.

Let us always remember that mental illness is just that – an illness that can be medically treated like any other illness. So, we must encourage others by letting them know that they are not alone and that medical or counselling help is available.

Let us use today’s conversations as a catalyst for TRUE change in how we go about our daily lives. Instead of turning a blind eye, seeping in denial, laughing or provoking, consider compassion, community and connection. Let us commit to ending the stigma surrounding mental health in our communities by fully engaging in events such as this one. Let us work together to create a society where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health, and where everyone feels empowered to seek help without fear of judgment.

Let us change the narrative. Let us remember, attempted suicide, self harm like cutting or erratic behavior is a cry for help. Let us help them.

Some of the common mental health issues we see in our nation today, and they are most likely to be judged are:

• Schizophrenia.
• Severe Bipolar Disorder.
• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
• Major Depression and Treatment-Resistant Depression.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Eating Disorders.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

This is the start of a process of addressing the problems. We can’t depend on society or our government who are already in this fight. More work is needed. There is more that we can do. Like, mental health research, diagnosing and treating out-patients.

Raising awareness as we’re doing here today, is a necessity, but not a sufficient condition for tackling this critical societal problem of mental illness. It’s imperative that mental healthcare receive proper funding and support.

Unless we make serious commitments to scale up in mental health treatments right now, the health, social and economic consequences will be far-reaching.

Ladies and gentlemen, we have our panellists that will educate us more and share facts, more detailed information, experiences and statistics and offer opinions. Let us interact with them, leave here today uplifted and empowered so that we can be more prepared to connect with our communities – and by communities I mean for example, our homes, neighborhoods, workplace, church, who we share cultural norms with etc., To recognize those who are in need of help.

In closing, I want to again express my deepest gratitude to the University of the West Indies Women's Health Initiative for organizing this crucial event. And to all of you here today, thank you for your commitment to this cause. By being here, you help to shape a brighter, more compassionate future for our communities and our country. Together, we can help people in need, break down stigma, and make mental health a priority in The Bahamas.

Thank you, and may we all continue to work towards a healthier, more understanding, and more compassionate community. Let’s connect."

Left to Right:  Rhia Rolle ( UWI Bahamas Women’s Health Initiative); Celesta Stuart, (UWI BWHI); Aneka Minnis ( UWI BWHI); Shanado Moss ( Rotaract Club of Nassau Sunset); Brittany Bain ( Vice President of the Rotaract Club of Nassau Sunset); Mrs. Ann Marie Davis, Office of the Spouse of The Prime Minister; Kaché Hanna ( President of the UWI Bahamas Women’s Health Initiative); Jordan Minnis ( President, Rotaract Club of Nassau Sunset); Gabrielle Evans ( UWI Bahamas Women’s Health Initiative); Mevanda Green ( UWI Bahamas Women’s Health Initiative)

Left to Right: Dr. Tameka Johnson-Dames, MBBS, DM, Psychiatrist; Gabrielle Evans ( UWI Bahamas Women’s Health Initiative); Brittany Bain ( Vice President of the Rotaract Club of Nassau Sunset); Mr. Joshua Cartwright (Guidance Counselor at St. John’s College); Mrs. Ann Marie Davis, Office of the Spouse of The Prime Minister; Rickell Curry (Therapist and Secretary-General of The Bahamas Psychological Association); Kaché Hanna ( President of the UWI Bahamas Women’s Health Initiative); Jordan Minnis ( President, Rotaract Club of Nassau Sunset)

(BIS Photos/Anthon Thompson)