UNICEF, Republic Bank Boost Adolescent Mental Health Support

More than 25 teachers and guidance counsellors from Region Two have completed specialised training designed to strengthen their ability to support the mental health and wellbeing of adolescents, as part of a partnership between UNICEF Guyana and Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited aimed at expanding psychosocial support for young people.

The three-day Help Adolescents Thrive (HAT) training programme, held from June 17 to 19, equipped participants with practical, evidence-based tools to help students develop social and emotional skills, identify signs of emotional distress, and connect adolescents with appropriate support services when needed.

The programme is implemented by UNICEF and funded by Republic Bank Guyana in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Adolescent Health Unit. It forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen support systems for adolescents and foster safe, nurturing school environments where students can learn, grow and thrive.

The initiative comes at a time when adolescent mental health has become an increasing concern in Guyana. According to UNICEF Guyana, 76% of adolescents between the ages of 10 and 18 reported experiencing serious stress and/or depression during the previous 12 months, while 36% said they had contemplated suicide. UNICEF has also warned that suicide is the third leading cause of death among adolescents aged 15 to 19 in the Caribbean, highlighting the urgent need for early intervention and stronger mental health support systems in schools and communities.

“Mental health is a critical component of adolescent wellbeing and development,” said Joann Simpson, Health Officer at UNICEF Guyana. “I am especially pleased that this training focuses on building the capacity of teachers and guidance counsellors to support adolescents in developing social and emotional skills. This is essential for promoting mental wellbeing and preventing mental health conditions. Prevention deserves our focused attention, now more than ever.“

UNICEF noted that adolescence is a pivotal stage of development, during which supportive relationships within schools can significantly influence resilience, wellbeing and long-term outcomes. Through the HAT programme, educators gain practical knowledge to foster positive interactions with students and create environments where adolescents feel safe seeking help.

Republic Bank Guyana said investing in educators is critical to building stronger support systems for young people.

“Republic Bank Guyana is proud to support this important initiative alongside UNICEF and our government partners,” said Guitree Ramsamooj, Branch Sales Manager at the bank’s Anna Regina Branch. “Region Two’s young people deserve environments where they feel supported, understood, and empowered to reach their full potential. By investing in the capacity of teachers and guidance counsellors, we are helping to build stronger support systems that can positively impact the lives of adolescents for years to come.“

The HAT training is one component of a broader collaboration between UNICEF and Republic Bank Guyana focused on improving adolescent mental health and psychosocial support nationwide.

The partnership, launched in April 2026, aims to increase awareness of adolescent mental health, strengthen the capacity of frontline professionals, and expand access to supportive services across Guyana. Through targeted investments in schools and communities, the collaboration seeks to ensure that young people have the knowledge, resources and support needed to navigate the challenges of adolescence and achieve their full potential.

UNICEF said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to promoting positive mental health and wellbeing among adolescents while strengthening community-based support systems. As Guyana continues to prioritise adolescent wellbeing, the organisation said collaborations between the public and private sectors demonstrate the power of collective action in creating healthier, safer and more supportive environments for every young person.