O-55 Innovation through listening: redesigning mental health services in Guyana based on community identified needs
Author(s):
S Madramootoo
Year of Presentation:
2026
Objective: This study aimed to identify prevalent mental
health challenges and preferred service delivery modalities
among adults in Guyana to inform prevention oriented, culturally responsive innovative mental health services.
Methods: A cross-sectional community needs assessment was conducted using an anonymous online survey. Adults aged 18 years and older residing in Guyana were recruited using purposive sampling followed by snowball sampling. The survey assessed mental health challenges, barriers to care, prior service utilisation, preferred intervention formats, and willingness to engage in free or low-cost services. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis.
Results: A total of 100 participants completed the survey (72% female, 26% male, 2% other). The most frequently reported challenges were stress (55%), anxiety (54%), financial stress (41%), depression (37%), and burnout (36%); only 5% reported no mental-health challenges. Despite this burden, most participants had never accessed mental-health services. Lack of services (45%), time constraints (37%), stigma (23%), cost (23%), and fear (23%) were the primary barriers. Preference was highest for one on one counseling (58%) and self-care activities (53%), with high willingness to engage in free or low cost services across gender.
Conclusion: This needs assessment reconfirms substantial mental health need along with a persistent utilisation gap in Guyana. Innovation in this context involves redesigning mental health services around confidentiality, accessibility, and prevention oriented care aligned with community preferences, that are relevant for Guyana and similar Caribbean settings.