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.
The declaration was adopted during the 56th Regular Session of the Organization of American States, where Antigua and Barbuda’s ambassador, Sir Ronald Sanders, described mental health as a cornerstone of human well-being, social cohesion, and sustainable development.
Addressing delegates on Tuesday, Sir Ronald said Antigua and Barbuda had initiated discussions on mental health at the request of Prime Minister Gaston Browne during the previous OAS General Assembly held in St. John’s.
He said 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.
Sir Ronald said mental health should be viewed not only as a healthcare issue but also as one that affects development, education, labor, and human rights. He said the newly adopted declaration reflects a commitment by OAS member 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.
Antigua and Barbuda also welcomed the declaration’s recognition of the needs of vulnerable individuals and groups, as well as its support for inclusive approaches to mental health policy.
Sir Ronald said mental health has long been one of the hemisphere’s most neglected public health challenges, adding that the declaration represents a collective commitment to recognizing mental health as essential to human dignity, social well-being, and sustainable development, while supporting healthier and more resilient societies across the Americas.
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