We are being exposed to information that we have never had to receive and we have to ensure that we are taking care of mental health. Change is always difficult”, Dr Hazel Othello, the Director of Mental Health in  Trinidad and Tobago ( in photo).  She was speaking at the Post Cabinet News briefing on Thursday.

Noting the need for us to be compassionate with the people  who are isolated  and  this in quarantine situation  because they have gone through the change they have never experienced before

They may be feeling anxious, sad, confused and irritable, but there is no cause for worry because they are natural reactions,’ Dr Othello stated while urging people to “support and encourage each other.”

“Even those of us who come and go as we want have to regulate ourselves.

“I have stopped reading some social media posts because of information overload,” she said adding “while it might be accurate it’s too much.

“We have to take care of ourselves and our families and our children. Children respond to the examples set by adults, so if you are anxious, you will be too.

“Keep children in a calm state and maintain a schedule that keeps things in a pattern they are accustomed to.  Let them do schoolwork,  have recreation time in a rhythm so they know what is coming next.

“For those with preexisting mental health conditions please take particular care of yourself; take your medication and maintain contact with the mental health providers, “ Dr Othello urged.

“Those in need of monthly injections should know that it will be provided so you don’t have to miss it.

“As for the persons with substance use disorders- including recovering alcoholics- don’t cope with the stress by taking a drink.

“A few drinks is not the best coping strategy and it is dangerous for recovering alcoholics,” The Director of Mental Health.