WISH Releases National Mental Health Survey Findings, Calls for Legislative Action and System Strengthening

WISH, the Wadadli Initiative for Self-care and Healing, has released the findings of a national mental health perception and access survey conducted in October 2024, offering new insight into public awareness, stigma, and access to mental health services in Antigua and Barbuda.

The survey, which gathered responses from 154 participants across multiple parishes, indicates growing public awareness and willingness to engage in conversations about mental health. At the same time, respondents continue to report significant barriers to care, including affordability, limited service availability, information gaps, and persistent stigma.

“These findings reflect a country at an important moment,” said WISH Founder Chaneil Imhoff. “There has been clear progress in elevating mental health within public discourse and health sector reform, but public demand for services is now outpacing system capacity. That gap must be addressed through coordinated policy, investment, and legislation.”

Respondents overwhelmingly identified high levels of perceived stigma surrounding mental health, while also expressing strong interest in digital and community-based mental health services as tools to expand access. Adults aged 25 to 44 represented the largest group of respondents, underscoring the relevance of mental health policy to workforce wellbeing, productivity, and family life.

WISH acknowledges the steps already taken by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda to advance health sector reform and mental health awareness. However, the findings highlight the need for comprehensive mental health legislation to strengthen rights-based care, improve coordination, and support long-term system planning.

The organisation has expressed its willingness to support government-led efforts through technical input, community engagement, data collection, and public education.

This research was funded in part by the UNESCO X SEVENTEEN – Going Together Grant, supporting WISH’s work in evidence-building and mental health advocacy.

The full policy brief, including data visualisations and recommendations, is available at: https://wish-wadadli.org/understanding-mental-health-awareness-access-and-barriers-in-antigua-and-barbuda/