Dujon calls for urgent action on youth mental health

Democratic Labour Party (DLP) spokesperson on Health and Elder Affairs Felicia Dujon is calling for greater investment in mental health services for children and teenagers.

She warns that rising demand is putting extra strain on the country’s healthcare system.

Her call follows the unnatural death of a 14-year-old girl in St Michael on Thursday. Police said the teenager was found at a residence she shared with relatives, and investigations are continuing.

Dujon said the death should prompt an urgent national response to support the mental health of young people in Barbados.

She noted Ministry of Health and Wellness figures showing that 295 young people between the ages of six and 17 presented to the Psychiatric Hospital’s 24-hour Assessment Unit between June and December last year.

“That figure should concern every Barbadian. 295 young people requiring psychiatric assessment in just seven months is not an ordinary statistic; it is a public-health warning,” Dujon said.

“It demonstrates that the demand for mental-health services among children is real, measurable and significant. The question now is whether the resources being allocated to child and adolescent mental health are keeping pace with that demand.”

Dujon further noted efforts to expand child and adolescent psychological services through the polyclinic system and recruit additional professionals as positive steps, but said ongoing investment i still needed.

She called for additional clinical and counselling psychologists, child and adolescent psychiatrists, social workers, occupational therapists and trained counsellors, along with greater access to mental health professionals in schools and communities.

“There must also be stronger, dedicated child and adolescent mental-health capacity within the public health system, including appropriately designed spaces where young people can receive assessment, counselling and treatment in an environment suited to their age and developmental needs,” she said.

“Children should not have to wait until they reach a psychiatric crisis before receiving professional support.”

The DLP spokesperson said greater emphasis should be placed on prevention, early identification and intervention, treatment and continued follow-up.

She also said that improving mental health support should not be the responsibility of the healthcare system alone.

Parents and guardians, she said, needed support to recognise changes in children’s behaviour. Teachers and school administrators should have proper training and clear pathways for referring young people for professional help.

Youth organisations, sporting clubs, churches and community groups could also help create environments in which children feel comfortable speaking about their emotional wellbeing.

Dujon also pointed out the importance of supporting young people who are grieving the loss of a friend or classmate, especially as the new school year begins.

“They may experience grief, confusion, anger, guilt or fear. They must be encouraged to speak with trusted adults and professionals rather than carrying that burden alone,” she said.

“Young people must also understand that protecting a friend does not mean keeping a serious concern secret. Sometimes involving a responsible adult is the greatest act of friendship.”

Dujon urged adults to take seriously any signs that a child may be struggling and to get professional help when needed.

“To every parent, guardian, teacher and friend: do not wait for a child to become silent before you listen, and do not wait for a crisis before you act,” she said.

“Look beyond the smile, listen beyond the words and take changes in a child seriously. If a child tells you that they are hurting, believe them enough to get help.”

Dujon said the Ministry’s own figures provided sufficient evidence for greater investment in services.

“When 295 children and adolescents require psychiatric assessment within seven months, the appropriate response is not to wait for demand to increase further,” she said.

“The health system must anticipate need, strengthen its workforce and ensure that children can access appropriate support as early as possible. Investment must follow the evidence.”

She stressed that her call is not about blaming anyone, but about making sure Barbados can meet the mental health needs of its children.

“The loss of another child must not become another headline followed by mourning and then silence,” Dujon said. “It must be a catalyst for sustained action and greater investment in the mental health of our youngest citizens.” (BT)