Workers Encouraged to Take Advantage of Mental Health Retreat

In today’s fast-paced work environment, the importance of mental wellness is more vital than ever.

Recognizing this, the Human Resource Professionals of Antigua and Barbuda (HRPAB) is launching a meaningful retreat that aims to help participants reset, recharge, and refocus, both personally and professionally.

Wendy Jackson-DeSouza, President of HRPAB, and mental health advocate Monifah St. John recently joined a televised segment to discuss this transformative initiative, and the upcoming event titled “Just Breathe: Finding Your Anchor.”

The idea was inspired by two key observations: the demands of Mental Health Awareness Month and the increasingly high-pressure environment HR professionals face.

“Sometimes, we just feel the need to pause and breathe. I manage over 200 employees with a small HR team. It’s a lot. Sometimes HR is taken for granted, and the retreat is an opportunity to bridge those gaps, reminding participants that everyone in the organization is human, with individual needs and challenges,” Jackson-Desouza emphasized.

From that realization came the idea for a wellness retreat, not just for HR professionals, but for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The retreat is designed to offer relief and inspiration to people across different walks of life, including CEOs, managers, housewives, and anyone needing a moment of calm.

St. John, known for her work with Mental Health Talk Antigua, will be one of the retreat’s key speakers. She highlighted how crucial it is for HR professionals to lead the charge in prioritizing mental health in the workplace.

The retreat will cover themes such as emotional boundaries, compassion fatigue and personal wellness.

The event will take place on June 28 at the Blue Waters Hotel from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.

HRPAB Members will pay EC$150 while non-members fee is EC$175. It refreshments and access to all activities and sessions.

Interested individuals can register by calling 779-8289 or 728-8990. They can also do so via email at [email protected]

Attendees are encouraged to dress comfortably. Sneakers and relaxed clothing are ideal, as the retreat includes interactive and engaging activities.

“This is more than a retreat,” Desouza said.

“It’s a reset button. It’s about finding your anchor, your center, and your strength.”