Rethinking Mental Healthcare in the Age of Democracy
April 25, 2024
Mental health is a global concern, and Marieke Buijs, in her article in Vrij Nederland, "Beter leven met psychische kwetsbaarheden; Maak ruimte voor het ongemak" (Living Better with Mental Vulnerabilities; Make Room for Discomfort), delves into a crucial question: is mental healthcare about merely alleviating symptoms, or is it about cultivating a fulfilling life despite vulnerabilities? In the Netherlands, the focus has shifted towards the latter, with significant implications for society as a whole (Buijs, 2024).
Increasingly, this alternative approach has gained traction, partly due to cuts in mental healthcare jobs. Rather than solely aiming for symptom relief, the emphasis is on guiding individuals towards a meaningful life. Shockingly, only 10 to 15% of patients without guidance manage to secure employment, whereas with proper support, the rate jumps to 40 to 50%. Stigmatization poses a significant barrier, perpetuated by the casual use of diagnostic terms like borderline, autistic, or narcissistic in everyday discourse. This not only fails to aid patients but also creates a hostile environment for their integration into society.
Encouragingly, there's a call to action to listen to the voices of those struggling with mental health issues, recognizing that for them, it's not just a conversation but their lived experience. But how does Curaçao fare in this context? Without succumbing to stigmatization, it's evident that there's a rise in reported cases, notably those associated with borderline personality disorder. In this small, economically precarious society with a lack of social cohesion, the risk of mental health challenges looms large. While there's a recent uptick in attention towards mental health, Curaçao still has a long way to go in terms of comprehensive support and understanding.
In a democracy, the true measure of progress lies in how we support the most vulnerable among us. By challenging outdated paradigms and fostering empathy and understanding, we can pave the way for a society where mental health is prioritized, and every individual can thrive.
Miguel Goede