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Gov’t Takes Significant Steps to Address Mental Health Challenges

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The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has taken important steps to tackle the rising incidence of mental health issues in society. In a series of in-depth discussions, the Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to proactively addressing mental health challenges through comprehensive strategies.

Recognizing the pressing need for community engagement and support, the Cabinet has instructed the Ministry of Health to develop and implement an immediate nationwide public education campaign focused on mental health awareness.

This initiative will feature regular community seminars, collaborations with church groups and community organizations, and weekly outreach sessions in workplaces aimed at promoting mental wellness and encouraging early intervention.

Adding to its mental health strategy, the Cabinet has also approved the construction of a 10-room transitional facility, or halfway house, through the National Housing Authority.

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This facility is specifically designed to provide essential support and intervention services for at-risk women dealing with mental health challenges.
To further expand the capacity for specialized mental health care, preliminary work has begun on a new facility for Clare View Hospital at Seaview Farm. This expansion is anticipated to enhance service delivery across the country.

Additionally, in a move aimed at building a skilled workforce, the Cabinet has agreed to offer scholarships for individuals pursuing professional qualifications in the fields of mental health care, including counseling and psychiatric support. This initiative aims to ensure that the country has the necessary human resources to support its mental health agenda.

The Government is also receiving support from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), which is collaborating with the Ministry of Health to develop a comprehensive mental health policy framework. This framework aims to modernize and improve service delivery for mental health across Antigua and Barbuda.

Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

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Comments (7)

  • Ben Simmons June 30, 2025, 2:46 PM

    Mental health is a serious issue in Antigua and barbuda. Serious serious serious. And it’s time we take it like that. Serious

  • Vena June 29, 2025, 7:29 PM

    Mental health is a serious disease. Alot of people walking around looking normal and they crazy

  • Informed citizen June 29, 2025, 5:42 PM

    The recognition that mental health is as vital as physical health, backed by calls for increased funding and new facilities, shows a profound shift in our national approach. This will undoubtedly lead to a healthier, more productive, and more compassionate society.

  • Apex Jones June 28, 2025, 3:47 PM

    We take this thing too lightly and unless it impacts directly, we will never know what other people go thru

  • Rhea June 28, 2025, 11:19 AM

    Mental health touches every family in some way. I hope they include people with lived experience in designing the programs.

  • Tina June 28, 2025, 11:18 AM

    Building facilities is good, but will we have enough trained staff to run them properly? Scholarships are a start, but we need long-term plans.

  • Robin June 28, 2025, 9:54 AM

    Alot of people with mental issues are at the prison. They need to be removed and recieve rhe required help they need. Clareview is filled to capacity i have been told then this means we have issues and we are not handling this matter as smoothly as we should.

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