Interesting, I just found this while reading Tinas updates. Looks like you in demand.
http://investinbelize.blogspot.com/2008/10/poverty-and-mental-illness-in-belize.htmlPoverty and mental illness in Belize
Mental illness and other disabilities can create poverty by making it difficult for people to work and live with any kind of consistency.
The Mental Health Programme of the Ministry of Health commemorated World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2008 with an awareness campaign in all Mental Health Clinics throughout Belize.
http://www.governmentofbelize.gov.bz/press_release_details.php?pr_id=5157Mental illness and poverty are very serious problems and I wish we had more exposure here in the Caribbean and the rest of the world. Studies have proven that mental illness and poverty go hand and hand. It's hard for people to get treament becuase they can not afford it or do not have access. Medications, treatment and lack of awareness contribute to the lack of funds. Areas with poverty are the least likely to see relief with this debilitating problem. Facilities for dealing with mental illness vary widely around the world. In some countries there are not enough resources, in others expensive privately-run clinics are the only real option and, in some places, people with mental illness may be detained by the police instead of being admitted to hospital. Insurance is available but not common In Belize and other Caribbean countries. In general, insurance companies and Government agencies and the general public are just not recognizing this huge problem. Insurance companies don't allow enough coverage for patients for treatment compared to physical problems. Mental illnesses can sometimes be more devastating than other physical problems. Think of all the hungry poor people in the world pushing shopping carts with all their possessions and living on the street.
This small country can sometimes be difficult to navigate threw. We can help to make it easier; we like to network with all advocacy groups.
Anyone that may be able to help our small country by counseling, education, ideas or treatment please think about volunteering your expertise. Contact Invest in Belize or
http://caribbean.dpi.org/index.htm if you would like to help.
This is part of Blog action day-Poverty