“Surviving the Pandemic” a critical mental health component for the wellbeing of employees

PORT ST. MAARTEN – A number of employees at Port St. Maarten participated in a mental health workshop titled, “Surviving the Pandemic,” via Zoom that was given by Mental Health Foundation (MHF) Psychologist Tameka Lambert MS last week Friday. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has stated that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a mental health crisis in the Americas at a scale never seen before, adding that mental health support is considered a critical component of the pandemic response. COVID-19 is not only just a physical health crisis. While people are remarkably resilient and are able to move forward despite certain impacts on their life, their capacity to cope can be stretched to a limit. Contributing factors are fear of infection, confinement, isolation, stigma, discrimination, loss of livelihoods and uncertainty about the future, which can increase mental health issues and needs among the populace. Port St. Maarten Management: “We know these are very trying times for everybody including our staff, and many in our community are facing burnout, anxiety and depression. “It was decided to contact the MHF and ask them to provide a program that would provide the tools to assist our staff to navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic challenges. We are very pleased with the program and would recommend it to other companies for the well-being of their employees.” The PowerPoint presentation focused on the impact that COVID-19 is having on members of society; life before and during COVID-19; changes in our body; and practical tips. Other points addressed in the presentation were: the new normal at work and at school; additional responsibilities; financial concerns; losing loved ones; increased crime; uncertainty about the future; and lack of autonomy. Some of the changes touched upon that individuals may be going through were rumination; difficulty concentrating; insomnia; change in appetite; somatic complaints; easily angered; self-isolation; and behavioral problems. The MHF can be reached by calling (721) 542-1677; Email: info@mhf-sxm.com; Address: #1 Leopard Road, Cay Hill, St. Maarten.