Bridgetown, Barbados, 30th July 2025 (PAHO) - Barbados hosted its second hybrid community mental health conversation to familiarize the public with the draft Mental Health Act during “Mind Yuh Mind” which was held at Princess Margaret Secondary School. There were approximately 70 people attending in-person while another 50 people joined online.
During the evening, a young lady bravely shared her emotional journey which began in primary school as she battled learning challenges and bullying, and she recalled the toll these ordeals took on her mental health and the limited support that was available.
The shared personal story set the stage for the Mental Health Commission to outline how the new Mental Health Bill will help to alleviate some of the challenges shared. The Mental Health Act, which was last amended in 1985, currently does not have a Rights Based Approach. The Commission’s presentation highlighted pertinent amendments to the Bill to include considerations such as the rights of children, the rights of parents and guardians, and special provisions for emergency care, support and community care. This includes the provision of mental health services at all polyclinics, school-based interventions and family support services. Following the presentation, a lively discussion began and continued throughout the evening including queries on the changes to the Act and the sharing of personal experiences by individuals of various ages. Persons highlighted some systems changes that would be necessary for the Bill to be effective such as more trained staff, increased capacity of non-mental health professionals to support persons, community peer support and more community-based resources.
A young gentleman, a former patient of the Psychiatric Hospital, suggested that a mental health identification card could be provided to assist former patients as they searched for employment. He also raised the issue of training for first responders to assist them when they are interacting with those with mental health challenges. The response was that all first responders would be trained as part of the reformed Mental Health Act.
Another young gentleman wondered what to do if one is having adverse effects to medications and was assured doctors can work with patients to determine the adjustments needed to address the side effects, such as changing medications or decreasing dosage. Persons were reminded that the new Bill speaks to the rights of the patient and their role in their care plan.
Another person who had joined the conversation virtually, query about what help is available for those who are not well enough to make their own decisions and have no one to make decisions for them, the audience was informed that the attending physician can make decisions on behalf of the patient.
In cases where abuse is suspected, the Mental Health Tribunal, a court for mental health matters, will be able to intervene on the abused person’s behalf.
The hearing impaired can be provided with an interpreter so that they can receive the mental health services required.
This second community conversation, which provided a forum for people to share their views, concerns and suggestions, was part of the Ministry of Health and Wellness effort to give the general public the opportunity to understand and be part of the change.
PAHO/WHO continues to support the Ministry of Health and Wellness as it transforms mental health nationally.
