Members of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) Medical Facility, Family Support,and Welfare Units participated in the Mental Health in Action symposium, held on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at the Atlantis Resort. The event, moderated by Ms. Christina Johnson and Mrs. Kennita Saunders-Kemp of the Mental
Health Programming Unit (MHPU) under the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), focused on addressing critical mental health issues and fostering awareness,dialogue, and policy implementation throughout The Bahamas.


The symposium’s objectives included engaging stakeholders in meaningful discussions about mental health policies and community outreach, evaluating progress and challenges in implementing the Mental Health Act, and providing a platform for health professionals and community leaders to share strategies for reaching vulnerable populations.

Keynote remarks were delivered by Dr. Valerie Knowles from the Bahamas Psychological Association (BPA). Additional contributions were made by esteemed speakers such as Dr. David Allen from the Renascence Institute and Dr. Eldonna Boisson, representing the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness, emphasized the importance ofthe Mental Health Act and provided an update on its current status.


The event featured multiple panels centered on topics such as “Implementing Policies, Community-Level Engagement, and Reaching Special Populations.” Discussions highlighted strategies for addressing substance use disorders and safeguarding vulnerable groups. Reservist Senior Lieutenant Delano Rolle also contributed insights during one of the panel sessions.


Representatives from the RBDF included Reserve Senior Lieutenant Delano Rolle, Reserve Senior Lieutenant Sean Knowles, Acting Force Chief Petty Officer Antione Adams, Chief Petty Officer Joseph Pugh, Petty Officers Kevin Smith, Charlan Johnson, and Chrystal Darville, and Able Woman Marine Bredia Mather.

Under the leadership of Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond King, the Royal
Bahamas Defence Force remains committed to taking a strategic and systematic approach to
addressing the mental health challenges faced by its personnel.

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