Two years after a Barbados study highlighted significant barriers to women seeking treatment for substance abuse, a local treatment facility is once again drawing attention to the issue.
Director of Clinical Services at Verdun & Marina House, Allison Gotip, said stigma, childcare responsibilities, and other household duties continue to prevent many women from seeking the help they need. The facility celebrated its 10th anniversary with a church service on Sunday at the Trinity Outreach Ministries International, in the auditorium of Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology.
Director of Clinical Services at Verdun & Marina House, Allison Gotip, said society needs to do more by providing greater support and understanding.
“Women are frequently the primary caregivers, managing households and providing for their children. They may be the main breadwinner or shoulder responsibilities that make it difficult to press pause and focus on themselves. There is also still a mindset that says asking for help is failing. But seeking help is one of the bravest things a woman can do,” she said.
Gotip explained that stigma is particularly significant. Many women hesitate to come forward for treatment for fear that taking time for themselves will be seen as neglecting their families or work responsibilities. International research shows that women often delay seeking treatment, and when they do, their substance use is often more severe, with greater physical and mental consequences.
“We talk about being our brother’s keeper, but we also need to be our sister’s keeper. Behind the smiles, many women are struggling silently. Marina House exists to remind women that it’s okay to ask for help and that help exists,” she said.
The church service included testimony from a current resident, who described her recovery as “a blessing from addiction to healing,” highlighting the transformative impact of the facility’s tailored approach.
Marina House was established in October 2015 with a gift from the Maria Holder Memorial Trust. Over the past ten years, it has evolved beyond a treatment centre into a sanctuary offering clinical care alongside emotional and spiritual support tailored to women’s unique needs.
“What started as a dream and a hope that we could do gender-specific treatment for women has become a beacon of healing,” said Gotip. “Over the past ten years, we have created spaces where women can rediscover their dignity, strength and sense of self. What began as a small vision has become a reality where women feel seen, understood and supported.”
Looking ahead, Gotip said they plan to expand access through short-term programmes, retreats, and women’s empowerment workshops, taking advantage of its serene location in St John.
“The setting itself is a part of the healing process. Nestled in a tranquil area, it provides a space where women can reflect, reset and grow,” she said. (DT)
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