As Antigua and Barbuda celebrates its 43rd year of independence under the theme “From Community Collaboration to Global Gains,” WISH (Wadadli Initiative for Self-care and Healing), which launched on World Mental Health Day, October 10, adds its voice to the national celebration with a powerful message about mental wellness as a cornerstone of national development.
“Our nation’s independence celebration, coming just weeks after WISH’s launch, provides a perfect moment to reflect on what true freedom means,” says founder Chaneil Imhoff. “As we celebrate our sovereignty, we must also focus on liberating ourselves from the stigma and silence surrounding mental health in our beautiful twin-island state.”
Since its October 10 launch, WISH has already begun creating ripples in the community, emerging as more than just a platform – it represents a movement born from the heart of Antigua and Barbuda. The initiative aims to create safe spaces for mental health conversations, provide accessible resources, and build a supportive community network across both islands.
“This year’s independence theme, ‘From Community Collaboration to Global Gains,’ perfectly mirrors what we’ve witnessed in WISH’s first few weeks,” Imhoff explains. “The overwhelming community response to our launch shows that Antiguans and Barbudans are ready for this conversation. We’re starting locally, but our vision extends to creating a model to inspire similar initiatives across the Caribbean.”
In just its first month, WISH has begun laying the groundwork for:
- Community-based support groups and workshops
- Digital platforms for accessible mental health resources
- Educational programs to combat stigma
- Youth-focused mental wellness programs
- Workplace mental health advocacy
“What we’ve seen since our World Mental Health Day launch confirms what we believed – our people have been waiting for a space like this,” Imhoff emphasizes. “WISH represents our belief that wellness is a collective journey. When we say ‘we’ in wellness, we mean every Antiguan and Barbudan, regardless of age, background, or circumstance.”
Looking ahead, WISH aims to establish itself as a cornerstone of mental health support in Antigua and Barbuda, with plans to:
- Develop a network of trained mental health first responders
- Create safe spaces for youth mental health discussions
- Implement community outreach programs
- Foster partnerships with international mental health organizations
- Advocate for improved mental health policies and resources
“As our nation celebrates 43 years of independence, WISH stands ready to contribute to our country’s next chapter of development – one where mental wellness is recognized as crucial to our national progress,” says Imhoff. “Your story matters, your mental health matters, and together, we can create the support system our community needs.”
For more information about WISH and how to get involved, please contact: 1 268 785 0756 or [email protected].
About WISH: The Wadadli Initiative for Self-care and Healing (WISH), launched on World Mental Health Day 2024, is a pioneering mental health platform in Antigua and Barbuda. Founded by Chaneil Imhoff, WISH aims to revolutionize mental health awareness, support, and accessibility in the twin-island nation through community engagement, education, and advocacy.
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