The Ministry of Health and Social Development is building capacity in its technical staff to manage mental, neurological and substance disorders.

The two-part training was done in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) as a part of the reorganisation of the model of mental health care delivery. It was geared for non-specialised health workers and persons who may be involved in providing psychosocial support in emergency situations.

Persons were trained on the Mental Health Gap Action Programme Humanitarian Intervention Guide (mhGAP-HIG) as a part of scale up care for mental, neurological and substance use disorders.

It is expected that an on-island team of trained persons will be created to assist with the delivery of informal mental health care as a part of a comprehensive system of mental health services offered in the Virgin Islands. 

These individuals will also be involved in Community Resilience groups to ensure the availability of a mental health and psychosocial response in each community.

The training held on February 27 and 28, was facilitated by Dr. Claudina Cayetano, from the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO& WHO), and Dr. Lena Verdeli of Columbia University with assistance by Psychiatrist Dr. June Samuel.  

Agencies present included Social Development, Safe Haven Transitional Centre, BVI Red Cross, Ministry of Education and Culture, BVI Health Services Authority, the Office of Gender Affairs and local clergy.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development aims to provide leadership that promotes health, social wellbeing, and a safe environment as positive resources for sustainable human development.

Note:

Photo Caption 1 of 2: Participants in the Mental Health Gap Action Programme Humanitarian Intervention Guide on February 27, 2020. (Photo credit: MHSD)

Photo Caption 2 of 2: Pictured is Dr. Claudina Cayetano, from the Pan American Health Organization /World Health Organization (PAHO& WHO), Dr. Lena Verdeli of Columbia University and Dr. June Samuel, Psychiatrist.   (Photo credit: MHSD)