AI-Summary – News For Tomorrow
Chief Nursing Officer Felicia McLean emphasizes the importance of open dialogue about suicide, citing a study revealing that over 500 students aged 9-13 have had suicidal thoughts and 247 have attempted suicide. The Child Safeguarding Board spearheads a multi-agency project aiming to coordinate a national response to youth mental health. Health Minister Katherine Ebanks-Wilks highlights suicide as a significant public health issue, advocating for destigmatization and accessible help. Current efforts include training for educators and youth workers, presenting findings from the Inspire Youth Meet-Up, and mental health resources. Caymind supports adults, and 911 is the number to call for emergencies.
News summary provided by Gemini AI.
“It’s never easy to talk about difficult topics like suicide, yet this is one of those topics where silence inflicts significant harm,” Chief Nursing Officer Felicia McLean said in a press release from the health ministry about the ongoing work to deal with the issue. “That’s why it’s so important for us to learn how to be a source of support and a safe space for those facing emotional challenges, such as suicidal thoughts and feelings.”
From a total of just over 3,300 students aged between 9 and 13 who took part in the survey, 529 reported having suicidal thoughts and 247 had tried to take their own lives.
The Child Safeguarding Board is leading a multi-agency child and youth mental health project to bring together key stakeholders to coordinate a national response to this critically important issue.
With the right people at the table and accurate data, the board hopes it will be able to create cohesion and consistency, safeguarding and promoting good mental health among young people, the senior nurse added.
Before she became an MP, Health Minister Katherine Ebanks-Wilks founded the local group, United Against Bullying Foundation. She said the health ministry was taking the lead on this issue.
“Suicide is a significant public health problem, with social, emotional and economic impact. Mental health is health, and we must continue to push that message to help end the stigma and make it easier for people to get help when they need it,” she said.
Along with efforts to identify accessible training options for educators and youth workers on signs of suicide risk, the multi-agency group is also currently preparing to present the findings of the Inspire Youth Meet-Up event at the upcoming Health Care Conference, which will take place in late October 2025.
Caymind has been set up for adults 18+. See here.
See the full list of mental health resource list below.
For emergencies, including mental health emergencies, call 911.
