The National Youth Parliament Association of Antigua and Barbuda (NYPAAB) will tackle the Mental Treatment Act of 1957 in a debate scheduled for today at the Parliament building.
The session, which begins at 9:30am, aims to speak to the need to modernize the country’s mental health policies and establish a comprehensive framework for improved care delivery across the nation.
Marver Woodley will lead the proceedings as Prime Minister, supported by Christal Percival as Attorney General and Jessica Zouetr serving as Speaker of the House.
The trio has been instrumental in crafting the resolution that will be presented.
At the heart of the proposed reforms is a push to update the nearly 70-year-old Mental Treatment Act, which mental health advocates have long criticised as inadequate for addressing contemporary challenges in mental healthcare delivery.
The resolution outlines several key initiatives, including the establishment of dedicated scholarships for students pursuing careers in mental health.
This move aims to address the critical shortage of mental health professionals in Antigua and Barbuda.
Additionally, the proposal emphasizes collaboration between medical professionals, mental health organizations, and government bodies to create what NYPAAB describes as “a more inclusive and effective mental health care system.”
The debate represents a significant step by the youth parliament to influence national policy on mental health, an issue that affects numerous Antiguans and Barbudans but often receives limited attention in policy discussions.
The session is open to the public, with mental health professionals and stakeholders particularly encouraged to attend.
About The Author
