WISH and Mental Fitness Centre Call for Community-Based Response to Missing Persons Crisis in Antigua and Barbuda

In response to the alarming increase in missing persons cases, the Wadadli Initiative for Self-care and Healing (WISH) and the Mental Fitness Centre are advocating for a comprehensive psychosocial support strategy that complements ongoing law enforcement efforts.

While acknowledging Acting Police Commissioner Everton Jeffers’ establishment of a specialized investigative team, WISH and the Mental Fitness Centre emphasize that community healing requires immediate mental health interventions alongside these investigative efforts.

Balancing Investigation with Community Support
The missing persons crisis has profoundly impacted families, schools, and neighborhoods across the islands. WISH proposes a dual approach: supporting law enforcement’s investigative work while simultaneously implementing critical psychosocial support measures.

“Finding our missing loved ones remains our highest priority,” states Chaneil Imhoff, Founder and Mental Health Advocate of WISH. “However, we must also address the widespread emotional trauma affecting our communities. Silence only compounds suffering—our people need support, and their mental wellbeing demands the same urgency as the search efforts.”

Community Healing as a National Imperative

WISH was established to combat the stigma and isolation that exacerbate trauma during community crises. “During these uncertain times, individual mental health directly impacts our collective resilience,” adds Imhoff. “We’ve witnessed parents, friends, and neighbors struggle with overwhelming fear and grief. We cannot remain passive while this emotional toll escalates.”

Jamion Knight, British-trained psychotherapist and Director of the Mental Fitness Centre, emphasizes: “The recent increase in missing persons has caused alarm, worry and anxiety across the country. And some persons, particularly parents of young children, may find it difficult to sleep or concentrate or experience panic attacks as a result of the fear generated by these cases. In moments such as these, reaching out to a mental health professional, or speaking to friends may help to calm these fears and other concerns. Tapping into social support networks can be equally beneficial. Within this context, it is important that we establish community teams of psychological first aid volunteers who could offer support in times of distress”

Constable Blaire Cornwall, Project Officer at WISH: “As a law enforcement officer and mental health advocate, I’ve seen firsthand how crises like these impact families and entire communities. While investigations are ongoing, we must also focus on the emotional well-being of those affected. Fear and uncertainty can take a serious toll, but no one should feel like they have to go through this alone. At WISH, we encourage people to seek support, lean on their communities, and prioritize mental wellness as we work together to bring hope and healing.”

Immediate Resources and Support
While WISH does not directly provide mental health services, we actively connect affected individuals with qualified professionals. We strongly advocate for the establishment of a dedicated suicide prevention and counseling hotline for Antigua and Barbuda, as envisioned and championed by The Mental Fitness Center.

For immediate assistance:
WISH: 1-268-785-0756
Mental Fitness Centre: +44 7873 239909
Building a Resilient Future Together

WISH envisions a future where mental health receives the same priority as physical health. The organization is actively working to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and develop networks of professional and community support.

“Our collective strength emerges from supporting one another,” says Imhoff. “As authorities work to locate missing persons, we must ensure every citizen feels heard, supported, and empowered to process their trauma.”

Join the Movement: Four Ways to Help
1. Share Critical Information: Report any details regarding missing persons to the police task force immediately or anonymously report to Crime Stoppers at 800 TIPS.
2. Seek Professional Support: Connect with licensed mental health professionals if you or someone you know is struggling.
3. Advocate for Crisis Resources: Support the establishment of a dedicated suicide prevention and counseling hotline.
4. Amplify Awareness: Engage with WISH and The Mental Fitness Center through social media and community events to normalize mental health conversations.