Nassau, The Bahamas - 24 November, 2023 — The Ministry of Health and Wellness’ Mental Health Unit, the PAHO/WHO Country Office for The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands, and The Bahamas Psychological Association hosted a media sensitization training. Under the theme, ‘The Role of the Media in Mental Health Reporting, representatives from the governmental and non-governmental media houses gathered to discuss a myriad of topics that impact the public and journalists. From current regulations and practices to media ethics to climate change and health reporting, attendees participated in comprehensive discussions.
Media professionals were encouraged to focus on presenting stories of people who overcome mental health and suicidal crisis in a manner that accurately provides local resources for mental health services, educate the public on positive coping measures, and to apply caution and respect when interviewing persons that have been affected by crises.
