BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — AS St. Kitts and Nevis joins the rest of the world in observing World Mental Health Day today (Oct. 10), Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew has underscored the importance of prioritizing mental well-being, declaring that “mental health is not a luxury — it is a lifeline.”
Delivering his message under this year’s theme, “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” Dr. Drew emphasized that mental wellness is just as crucial as physical safety, especially in times of crisis.
“This year’s theme calls us to reflect on a truth that is both simple and powerful: in times of crisis, mental health is not a luxury, it is a lifeline,” the Prime Minister said. “Whether the catastrophe comes in the form of a hurricane, a pandemic, the sudden loss of a loved one, or even the slow, silent stresses of daily life, our emotional well-being is just as vital as our physical safety.”
Pointing to his medical background, Dr. Drew noted that trauma, grief, and anxiety often persist long after physical wounds have healed. He stressed that while emotional scars are invisible, they are no less real — and must never be faced alone.
The prime minister commended the island’s network of psychiatrists, psychologists, guidance counsellors, psychiatric nurses, and social workers who continue to serve communities with compassion, emphasizing that, "they are the quiet heroes ensuring that mental health care is not forgotten when crisis strikes."
However, he reminded citizens that mental health care is not only the responsibility of professionals.
Dr. Drew further outlined his government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen mental health services across the Federation. This includes collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), community health teams, and hospitals to make mental health support an integral part of emergency preparedness and response.
He added that mental wellness is now being woven into the broader public health strategy, recognizing the close link between mental health and non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the psychological toll of climate change, noting that extreme weather events and displacement have contributed to a rise in “climate anxiety.”
"We cannot ignore the growing psychological effects of the climate crisis. Extreme weather events, displacement, and uncertainty have given rise to what is now known as climate anxiety. As a small island state on the frontlines of climate change, our response must be proactive, compassionate, and rooted in resilience," he stated.
The government has begun establishing a national registry of mental health professionals — a directory aimed at improving collaboration, quality, and access to care for all.
