Ministry of Health and PAHO Hosts Workshop Focused on Reporting of Suicide and Mental Health Issues

(MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND PAHO HOSTS WORKSHOP FOCUSED ON REPORTING OF SUICIDE AND MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES)

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs, in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), is hosting a week-long national workshop dedicated to enhancing the capacity for ethical and responsible reporting on suicide and other mental health issues. Convened from August 11–15, 2025, at the Conference Room, Treasury Building on Independence Drive, this workshop brings together a diverse and esteemed assembly of media professionals, mental health experts, government officials, and key stakeholders.

This initiative reflects the Ministry and Government’s resolute commitment to elevating mental health as a paramount priority on the national agenda. Central to this vision is a comprehensive reform process, marked by the drafting of a progressive Mental Health Bill and the forthcoming establishment of a state-of-the-art mental health rehabilitation facility. The current workshop stands as a critical component within this transformative journey, recognizing the indispensable role of the media in shaping public discourse and fostering a culture of understanding and compassion.

Throughout the week, participants will engage deeply with the pivotal responsibility of the media to deliver coverage that is safe, accurate, and free from stigma, particularly concerning suicide and self-harm. The Ministry remains steadfast in its commitment to redefine the national narrative by embracing a health-centered rather than illness-focused approach—one that recognizes mental wellness as an integral part of overall health. This new perspective reflects our dedication to promoting positive mental health across all parts of society, creating environments where individuals and communities are empowered to thrive.

In this effort, the media has an important role to communicate information clearly and honestly, avoiding sensationalization, while encouraging help-seeking behaviors and reducing the stigma and discrimination often associated with mental health issues.

The workshop’s opening day convened a stakeholder consultation to critically assess the current media landscape in Antigua and Barbuda. Attendees shared insights, identified challenges, and articulated priorities that will guide national efforts to elevate the quality and integrity of mental health reporting.

The ensuing days, August 12 and 13, will provide intensive technical training tailored for media and communications professionals. The curriculum encompasses core principles and practical methodologies for responsible reporting on suicide and self-harm, ethical imperatives in coverage, the psychological impact on audiences and journalists alike, as well as strategies to promote mental wellness and self-care within the journalism profession.

On Thursday, August 14, a multi-sectoral collaborative session will convene senior representatives to develop a national Monitoring and Evaluation framework. This instrument will underpin consistent, accountable, and progressive standards in media reporting. The final day, Friday, August 15, is reserved for additional dialogue or working sessions as required.

This endeavor represents one important facet of a broader, multisectoral strategy to advance suicide prevention and promote mental health nationwide. By equipping media professionals with the necessary knowledge, tools, and ethical guidance, the Government aims to dismantle stigma, encourage help-seeking behaviors, and ultimately save lives.

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