Antigua and Barbuda, June 27, 2025 — The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas, voiced strong support for the Resolution Addressing the Critical Mental Health Crisis in the Americas during the 55th Regular Session of the General Assembly of the Organization of American States (OAS) held in Antigua and Barbuda from June 25 to 27, 2025.
Minister Douglas emphasized that mental health is a fundamental human right and a crucial determinant of sustainable development across the region.
In line with the Resolution, he underscored the necessity for sustained political commitment, regional solidarity, and collective action to confront the escalating mental health challenges facing the Americas.
“The impact of mental health on our people and our economies cannot be overstated,” Dr. Douglas remarked. “Saint Kitts and Nevis stands resolute in our belief that mental health services must be accessible, community-based, and aligned with human rights standards.”
Saint Kitts and Nevis has made significant progress in mental health services, operating four community clinics, two-day treatment centers, and providing inpatient care at the Joseph N. France General Hospital. Nevertheless, from 2017 to 2021, registered mental health clients increased by 7%, with worrying trends among youth, as teenage diagnoses tripled between 2021 and 2022.
The Foreign Minister indicated that the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis is modernizing outdated mental health legislation, with a new bill drafted in partnership with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). It has also launched the US$1 million “Mental Health Service System Enhancement Project” with Taiwan, aimed at training healthcare workers, expanding screening, and raising public awareness.
The Resolution calls for enhanced investment in mental health services, the creation of a regional mental health partnership, and the establishment of a regional fund to support priority mental health initiatives. It emphasizes intersectoral collaboration, community-based care, and the protection of human rights for all individuals, especially vulnerable groups such as children and adolescents.
Minister Douglas concluded by affirming Saint Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to the resolution’s objectives.
“Our efforts nationally reflect our shared vision regionally, that no one should suffer in silence or be denied care and dignity due to mental health challenges. We join our regional partners in calling for urgent and unified action,” he declared.
The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis remains committed to working with regional partners to strengthen mental health systems and improve the well-being of all its citizens.
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