The number of homicides has no doubt taken its toll on the mental health of citizens and the families of victims. One local psychologist suggests the government invest in the training of persons such as hairdressers and bartenders, noting that Jamaica does not have enough personnel to remedy a mental health crisis.

The Quantum Transformation Psychologist, Dr. Leahcim Semaj says others have a ‘fight or flight’ response, as is evident among social media users who mention the urge to leave the country and part ways with the dangerous reality; however, the relatives of those murdered cannot be excluded from the conversation.

Dr. Semaj suggests with projections of a global mental health crisis following the COVID-19 pandemic, and Jamaica currently grappling with crime and violence, the government should invest in community-based assistance. Watch the report below: