Critical groups of the population such as alcohol and drug dependents, people living with HIV, and the LGBTIQ community are more vulnerable to mental health problems due to stigma and social discrimination. However, not much has been done for them in terms of sensitization and advocacy on mental health. Therefore, the first-ever sensitization training for these groups of people was conducted in Punakha recently.
For the first time, about 25 participants from Chithuen Phendhey Association, Lhak-Sam, and Pride Bhutan congregated in Punakha for weeklong advocacy training. The training focused on capacity building of the organizations and the need for rigorous sensitization among them.
According to the Executive Director Chithuen Phendhey Association, Tshewang Tenzin, although mental health problems victimize the general population, the minority groups of the population are more vulnerable due to discrimination and stigma.
Although mental health problems are preventable and also have treatments, some participants said stigmatization and discrimination bar them from getting timely intervention.
“Most cases of mental health among the LGBTIQ are due to discrimination. Even if people can’t help and support them, not discriminating against them would be immensely helpful,” said Tenzin, the Director of Pride Bhutan.
Likewise, the Manager of Lhaksam, Deyon Phuntsho, said if people treat the minority population like their own, it would be more than enough.
“Firstly, people who are suffering from mental health issues don’t acknowledge it and the general population doesn’t understand it,” he added.
In the country where mental health issues have been on the rise in the recent past, the shortage of psychiatrists and trained counsellors have further aggravated the issues.
However, the participants will now be able to provide basic mental health services in the communities.
Funded by Save the Children, Chithuen Phendhey Association organized the training. They plan to conduct similar training in the future as well.
Kelzang Thinley, Punakha
Edited by Chayku
