In a world where mental health issues among young people are on the rise, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is stepping up to address these challenges. The upcoming launch of the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Programme is a much-needed initiative aimed at equipping youth directors, development workers, and leaders with essential skills to support youth facing emotional and mental health crises.
Here are some key points about the MHFA Programme and its significance:
- The programme will be launched by CARICOM in September 2024, running for six weeks.
- It will be provided free of charge to participants, reflecting CARICOM’s commitment to accessible mental health resources.
- Participants will engage in an experiential learning process, emphasizing hands-on approaches and real-world applications to ensure effective skill development.
The goal of the MHFA Programme is to empower youth directors, officers, and leaders across CARICOM member states to recognize and address the needs of young people in distress. By providing these individuals with the tools and knowledge to become effective first responders in mental health situations, the programme aims to bridge the gap for young people who may be hesitant to seek professional help.
Michele Small-Bartley, Programme Manager for Youth Development at the CARICOM Secretariat, expressed optimism about the potential impact of the programme. She emphasized the importance of active participation from youth stakeholders in the region and highlighted the role of the programme in preparing communities to navigate mental health challenges effectively.
This initiative is part of CARICOM’s ongoing efforts to build capacity among Caribbean youth. It follows successful collaborations earlier this year, focusing on climate change and health issues as well as advocacy for the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) among youth ambassadors and leaders in the region.
Invitations to participate in the MHFA Programme have been extended to ministries responsible for youth development, emphasizing the importance of involving youth directors and officers from across the region. CARICOM encourages all eligible individuals to seize this valuable opportunity to enhance their skills in supporting youth mental health.
For more information on the CARICOM Mental Health First Aid Programme, interested parties are urged to reach out to their local ministry responsible for youth affairs or directly contact the CARICOM Secretariat. Together, let’s empower and support our youth in facing mental health challenges.
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