Antigua and Barbuda has taken a significant step forward in youth mental health support with the official launch of the Young Caribbean Minds Mental Health Chat Line and the release of a groundbreaking research report that will help shape the country's new mental health legislation.
Minister of State in the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation Kiz Johnson joined Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Minister of Health, Wellness, the Environment and Civil Service Affairs Michael Joseph, and regional partners from UNICEF Eastern Caribbean Area and The University of the West Indies for the historic occasion.
The research report represents the culmination of an extensive consultation process that captured the perspectives of more than 1,000 children and young people across Antigua and Barbuda. Their input is expected to play a direct role in shaping the country's pending Mental Health Care Bill — a piece of legislation that would modernize the outdated 1957 Mental Health Act.
Prime Minister Browne underscored that young people must have a voice in policies that directly affect their lives and wellbeing, positioning the initiative as a major investment in placing youth at the centre of national decision-making on mental health.
Acting Representative for UNICEF Eastern Caribbean Area Maryam Abdu described the chat line as transformative. The service will provide a free, confidential, and anonymous text-based platform available in both English and Spanish. Trained volunteers will staff the line, which will also be connected to child protection services to ensure young people can access immediate assistance and guidance.
Representatives from UNICEF Eastern Caribbean Area, The University of the West Indies, and the National Youth Parliament Association addressed the gathering. The event also welcomed volunteers who will undergo specialized training to operate the new chat line.
