Kingstown, St. Vincent — December 10, 2024:
As the 2024 hurricane season concludes, the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Technical Working Group (MHPSS TWG) of the Ministry of Health in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is stepping up efforts to address the lingering mental health challenges of those affected by Hurricane Beryl. In partnership with UN Women and the Build Back Equal (BBE) project, the group has received critical tools to expand its support network through the innovative “How Yuh Feeling?” project.
This initiative, funded by Global Affairs Canada, aims to provide focused support to vulnerable groups and first responders still grappling with the hurricane’s aftermath. The program will extend psychosocial services to remote communities through mobile teams, a vital step in addressing gaps in accessibility.
“We’ve seen anger, sadness, and depression,” said Roselle Solomon, Co-Chair of the MHPSS TWG, during the handover ceremony. “Even now, if it starts to rain or the wind blows too hard, people are affected. Many who needed help have gone undiagnosed, and this initiative is a step toward reaching them.”
First responders, many of whom worked tirelessly while their own homes were destroyed, are also a priority for mental health support. Senior Nursing Officer Julie Douglas Russell praised their resilience, stating: “Our health workers stayed at their posts, ensuring care for others while navigating their own losses. They too need care.”
The “How Yuh Feeling?” project incorporates the Caribbean Self-Care Toolkit, focusing on culturally relevant and accessible interventions. These include using games, sports, and creative activities to foster connection and resilience, especially for men and youth who may shy away from traditional therapy methods.
“This work should not only be reactive but proactive,” said Tonni Brodber, UN Women Caribbean Representative. “People face crises every day, not just during hurricanes. This initiative demonstrates what is possible when we prioritize mental health in good times and bad.”
By integrating innovative approaches and focusing on community-based care, the program aims to help survivors regain control over their lives while building a model that could be replicated across the Caribbean.
The partners emphasized the importance of fostering community resilience, not only as a recovery tool but as a cornerstone for future disaster preparedness.
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