Antigua Welcomes OAS Declaration to Strengthen Mental Health

CARIBBEAN – Antigua and Barbuda has welcomed the adoption of the Declaration on Improving Mental Health in the Americas, saying climate-related disasters, economic vulnerability, social disruption and the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have heightened the need for stronger mental health systems across the region.

Antigua and Barbuda’s Sir Ronald Sanders says the initiative was driven by the belief that mental health is fundamental to the resilience and progress of societies throughout the hemisphere, adding that the Caribbean faces shared challenges that require a coordinated regional response.

The newly adopted declaration reflects a commitment by the Organization of American States to strengthen cooperation, share best practices, expand access to quality mental health services and promote people-centered policies focused on prevention, care and recovery.