Ministry of Health Officials in Parliament
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has taken a major step toward strengthening the country’s mental health framework following a high-level stakeholder consultation on the proposed Mental Health Bill.
The consultation, convened by the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs on February 20 at the Parliament Building, brought together senior health officials, mental health professionals, representatives from community clinics, the Medical Benefits Scheme, the AIDS Secretariat, the Directorate of Gender Affairs, the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS), Claarevue Psychiatric Hospital, non-governmental organizations, and other key partners.
Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph outlined the Government’s vision to integrate mental health services into community clinics across Antigua and Barbuda, making care more accessible and embedded within primary healthcare. He also highlighted plans to establish a Behavioral Health Institute at the former Jehovah Witness Kingdom Hall, which will operate under the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre to enhance coordination and delivery of specialized services.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has provided technical support in drafting the Bill, ensuring it aligns with international best practices and emphasizes human rights protections.
The proposed legislation aims to modernize existing mental health laws, strengthen accountability, safeguard the dignity of individuals living with mental health conditions, and promote a rights-based, person-centred approach to care.
Feedback gathered during the consultation will be used to refine the draft legislation ahead of its planned tabling in Parliament in March 2026.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to advancing holistic health and national wellness, noting that mental health remains critical to the country’s overall social and economic development.
Ahhhh finally I can see we making some progress and that’s real good news
This is such an important initiative! Mental health has often been overlooked, and it’s great to see the government taking concrete steps to integrate services into community clinics. I also really like the focus on human rights and a person-centered approach, too often mental health care can feel impersonal. Hopefully this Bill will make it easier for people to access support without stigma.
Excited to see progress but also curious if there will be enough trained staff and resources
mental health awareness is new to alot of individuals. some disregarding it as a trick young person’s play with derived from to much white people influence. training and awareness is what we need.
We need a whole mental health reform for Antigua and Barbuda. Too many crazy people are around acting normal
im.inquiring about what is the latest with the made doctor drom Doninica who they hired to run the phsyciatric hospital. what become of him?