KINGSTON, Jamaica — Carleen Coates-Russell, founder of the Global Hands Foundation, has announced the sixth annual Mental Health Fair, to be held at Bounty Hall Primary School in Trelawny on August 10. This event is a collaborative effort with the Jamaica Constabulary Force.
Coates-Russell, a psych nurse at the University of Pennsylvania with strong ties to Jamaica, is committed to contributing to the island. She shared her personal motivation: “My parents are from Jamaica. My dad used to go back to Jamaica and give back before he passed away, so I just want to continue his legacy.”
The fair will feature distinguished guest speakers, including Deputy Mayor of Falmouth, Jonathan Bartley, and Dr. Patrick Harris. Attendees will benefit from a range of services and resources, including school supplies, food, wheelchairs, walkers, and diapers.
This year’s event will host a panel of experts:
Sofia Commito, MD, Physiotherapist
Mikkio Thelwell, MD, Psychiatrist
Lakeshia Ashley-Elliot, Licensed Clinical Social
Worker/Psychotherapist
Asha Mwendo, PhD, Psychology
Empress Imani, Holistic Health and Wellness Educator
Roslyn Washington, Psychiatrist/Social Worker
Dr. Roslyn Washington emphasized the fair’s goal to demystify mental health. “We want to break the stigma of mental health awareness and just educate people,” she said. “It’s not about the ‘crazy man’ up the street. We’re discussing depression, anxiety, grief, and loss—all issues that affect everyone. We’ll also address holistic approaches, including nutrition and exercise.”
The fair aims to educate the community and foster a more informed and supportive approach to mental health.
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