Science and faith

October 10, 2024 was observed as World Mental Health Day with the theme Mental Health at Work and points to the very practical nature of supporting, encouraging, affirming and caring for those living with mental health challenges, especially those who have been diagnosed with specific conditions such as schizophrenia. But alas, it is not just those who have been diagnosed that are of concern but indeed all of us. The late Professor Frederick Hickling reminded us that just over 40% of the Jamaican population is living a personality disorder, the majority of which is undiagnosed. This disturbing reality puts into perspective the nature of the challenges and opportunities before us as a nation.

Persons who are mentally ill live among us daily. When we are cordial, encouraging, compassionate and loving towards everyone, we facilitate the transformation of lives that would otherwise be experienced as meaningless. In other words, persons sometimes experience life as hopeless, boring and lacking a sense of purpose and this can drive them into a state of depression. This is especially so in a world that has become obsessed with consumerism, materialism, egotism and a sense of entitlement, which makes those who are not measuring up feel less than valuable and lacking a sense of integrity. Mental health is not taken seriously by many persons. However, the definition of mental health will give us the direction in which we should focus our thoughts and actions.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is a state of well-being which enables people to cope with the stresses of life, fulfill their natural abilities and learn to live and work well in a safe environment. Wellness is therefore a key element of this definition of mental health and points to the value of stability in mind, body and spirit, all of which are greatly helped by an enabling environment. In this environment family, church, school, social clubs, businesses, social services and the physical environment must work together to foster and facilitate an atmosphere of peace, love and justice. Moreover, in a context in which there are demonstrable actions that point to care and support for all persons, irrespective of one’s status in life, the welfare and wellbeing of the mentally ill will be prioritized because the dignity of each person is recognized.

In fact, focusing on the dignity and worth of each person was high on the list of priorities of the bishops of the Church in the Province of the West Indies (Anglican) when they met in their science and faith workshop from September 30 to October 03, 2024. The Diocese of Jamaican and the Cayman Islands in partnership with the Anglican Communion’s Commission on Science and Faith, saw bishops and scientists in the same room considering matters of life and death, the value of each person, care of the environment and the sustainability of life of the earth. Central to the dialogue was the recognition that both science and faith have different knowledge systems and participate with several other indigenous, traditional and local ways of knowing or apprehending reality, all of which are both conflicting and complementary.

Yet, the fact that we all occupy one universe, with the emphasis on the first syllable UNI, means that all knowledge systems operate within one reality and are best served by working together rather than at cross purposes. Indeed, the goal of science, faith and other knowledge systems is not to destroy the universe but rather to enhance life within it, learn from its mystery, and work together to explore the limitless information still to be uncovered and commit to change with the ever-evolving reality called life. Taken seriously, and with the recognition that no one must be left behind in the pursuit of scientific or other knowledge systems, the mentally ill, diagnosed or otherwise, must find a place in the expanding universe where there are opportunities for human health, wellbeing and general flourishing.

I like the theme for World Mental Health Day for many reasons, chief among these is the focus on work. Precisely because the lives of so may people are affected, it is necessary to focus on work, which includes emphasizing at the policy level laws that protect the mentally ill and other vulnerable persons from stigma and discrimination. These efforts mean that while we hope it is not happening, we must redouble our efforts to prevent the abuse of mentally ill persons. Thanks to public and private organizations and institutions that have hotlines and other means so that persons can reach out for help, and provide information when abuse is observed or detected. These must be accompanied by laws and rules which govern how we treat those who are mentally ill, including children.

Partnerships provide opportunities for all stakeholders to work together to ensure the wellbeing of all persons and the mentally ill must be prioritized in this process. Government, private sector, and religious organizations must cooperate to address the scourge of mental illness, other chronic diseases, infectious diseases and the destruction of the environment. Already we see such partnerships at work with the various arms of the United Nations, which incorporate the views and suggestions of scientists and people of faith. This is a clear demonstration that we all have a stake in the protection of the universe, care of the environment and the wellbeing of those who live in it.

The Anglican Communion exploration of science and faith, the Bishops of the Church in the Province of the West Indies and scientists all feel the need to participate in this exciting movement for good. Therefore, we must incorporate the views emerging from all knowledge systems and pursue partnerships that will be for the good of the universe and abundant life for all people.

Rev. Garth Minott is the Suffragan Bishop of Kingston.