A team of eight psychologists from the Ministry of Health’s Mental Health Unit is currently working with families affected by the MV Barima tragedy in the North West District.
The team is based in Port Kaituma and Mabaruma, and is also reaching communities in White Water and Black Water — areas where many of the families impacted by the tragedy live.
“This process is not something that can be done short term. It must be long term,” said Terenna Bacchus, a psychologist from the Ministry of Health’s Mental Health Unit.
Ms Bacchus has been on the ground since the MV Barima tragedy occurred. She and her colleagues have been providing support to bereaved families as well as survivors.
“We’re here for the long haul,” said Dr Mark Constantine, Clinical Psychologist and Head of Psychological Services at the Ministry of Health’s Mental Health Unit, speaking on the support being provided to those affected by the MV Barima tragedy.
Dr Constantine emphasised that long-term support will be made available to grieving families and survivors.
He noted that one of the major challenges has been establishing contact with families, since many lost their phones and other personal belongings during the tragedy. He also said that many families have already conducted burials.
Despite this, Dr Constantine assured that counselling and support will continue.
“The Ministry’s Mental Health Unit understands post-trauma, and that is why long-term counselling is needed,” he said. “We are committed to providing that support for as long as it is required.”
