WISH Calls for Community-Wide Commitment to Suicide Prevention and Mental Wellness During Mental Health Awareness Month

PRESS RELEASE

St. John’s, Antigua – As Mental Health Awareness Month begins this May, the Wadadli Initiative for Self-Care and Healing (WISH) is urging individuals, organizations, and institutions across Antigua and Barbuda to take collective action in promoting mental wellness and suicide prevention. Through education, early intervention, and fostering stronger community connections, WISH aims to empower citizens with the knowledge and resources needed to support mental health proactively and sustainably.

Mental Health Awareness Month is more than a period of reflection—it is an urgent call to action. This year, WISH is dedicated to equipping individuals with practical tools to manage their mental health, challenge stigma, and create a culture where self-care and emotional well-being are prioritized. By leveraging its expanding digital platform, WISH continues to lead efforts in providing culturally relevant mental health support, ensuring that no one has to face their struggles alone.

A Crucial Conversation on Suicide Prevention
As part of its Mental Health Month initiatives, WISH is proud to collaborate with the Antigua and Barbuda Holistic Coalition (ABHC) to present a free public webinar titled:

“Suicide Prevention: Crafting Effective Safety Plans for You and Your Loved Ones”
Date: Tuesday, May 7, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM AST
Location: Virtual (Register at https://www.abholisticcoalition.org/events-1/suicide-prevention)

This critical discussion will bring together three panelists:
•⁠ ⁠Tia Phillip, Counselling Psychologist and Secretary of ABHC
•⁠ ⁠Cerene Prince, Holistic Psychotherapist and Founder of ABHC
•⁠ ⁠Chaneil Imhoff, Mental Health Advocate and Founder of WISH

Attendees will gain valuable insights on recognizing warning signs of suicide, effectively supporting someone in crisis, and developing personalized Suicide Prevention Safety Plans. These plans serve as actionable guides that can be shared with family, friends, or healthcare providers to ensure timely and appropriate intervention.

From Silence to Safety: A Community Responsibility
Chaneil Imhoff, Founder of WISH, emphasized the importance of proactive mental health care:

“Suicide prevention is not just about responding to emergencies—it’s about building a foundation of awareness, preparedness, and compassionate support every single day. We must move beyond silence and stigma to create a society where mental health is openly discussed, where people know how to be lifelines for one another, and where seeking help is seen as an act of strength, not shame.”

The webinar is designed for a broad audience, including educators, parents, healthcare professionals, youth leaders, and concerned citizens aged 16 and older. By participating, individuals will deepen their understanding of mental health challenges and learn practical strategies to support those in distress.

A Collective Effort for a Healthier Future
WISH encourages all members of the community to engage in Mental Health Awareness Month by:
•⁠ ⁠Educating themselves and others on mental health and suicide prevention
•⁠ ⁠Practicing and promoting self-care strategies in daily life
•⁠ ⁠Supporting local mental health initiatives and advocacy efforts
•⁠ ⁠Checking in on friends, family, and colleagues to foster connection and reduce isolation

Mental health is a shared responsibility, and lasting change begins with open dialogue, empathy, and actionable steps. Through events like this webinar, WISH and ABHC aim to create a safer, more supportive environment for all residents of Antigua and Barbuda.

For more information on the webinar or to explore WISH’s mental health resources, visit www.wishwadadli.org. Together, we can build a community where mental wellness is a priority and no one suffers in silence