Theme: “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies”
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) today announced its comprehensive participation in the observance of World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2025, under the global theme “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”
NEMA recognises that the emotional toll of crises — from hurricanes and floods to public health emergencies — is as devastating as the physical damage. For NEMA, incorporating psychosocial care into national disaster plans is not secondary but foundational. It ensures the psychological safety and capacity of individuals to participate fully in their own recovery, directly enabling the transition from disaster to sustained resilience. This principle underpins all NEMA’s related activities during this year’s observance.
Leadership Statement
National Disaster Coordinator Mr. Livingston Pemberton highlighted the significance of the theme, noting that this year’s focus resonates deeply with NEMA’s core mission.
“We recognize that true recovery begins not only with rebuilding physical structures, but with healing the minds and spirits of our people,” said Mr. Pemberton. “Integrating psychosocial support into our disaster preparedness and response strategies ensures our communities have the emotional resilience to cope, heal, and rebuild effectively in the face of adversity. Mental health support is, quite simply, a lifeline in a disaster.”
Key Activities and Collaborations
To effectively mark World Mental Health Day, NEMA is undertaking several initiatives in collaboration with national partners:
1. Community-Based Mental Health Engagement and Digital Outreach
NEMA is partnering with the St. Kitts Mental Health Association (SKMHA) to conduct community walk-throughs and share critical information through digital platforms.
NEMA will utilise its social media platforms and WhatsApp Broadcast lists to disseminate informative infographics prepared by SKMHA.
These materials highlight available mental health services, coping strategies, and emergency support mechanisms.
District Volunteers will also distribute printed infographics and disaster preparedness materials directly to residents, raising awareness and providing guidance on accessing mental health support during emergencies.
2. Special Feature in Lifelines Magazine
NEMA will contribute a feature article titled “Disaster Response Must Include Mental Health – Here’s Why” to the National Counselling Centre’s (NCC) online magazine Lifelines.
The article outlines the evidence and rationale for treating mental and psychosocial needs as a core component of emergency management.
3. Special Edition of “From Danger to Safety”
A special edition of NEMA’s public awareness programme “From Danger to Safety” will feature Mrs. Valencia Smithen-Byron, Deputy Director of the National Counselling Centre and Clinical Counsellor.
The episode will explore the essential role of mental health in both disaster response and ongoing preparedness.
Airs every Tuesday on ZIZ Radio (1:00 p.m.) and ZIZ Television (8:00 p.m.), and is also available on NEMA’s official Facebook and YouTube platforms.
Call to Action
NEMA urges government officials, health providers, school staff, and community leaders to join in these efforts. The Agency emphasises that investing in evidence-based and community-based mental health interventions is the most sustainable way to build long-term community resilience.