The Public Health Department Saba announces significant progress in enhancing community mental health wellbeing, highlighted by the successful completion of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training on June 9-10, 2025. This initiative demonstrates Public Health’s strategic commitment to fostering mental health awareness and building a collaborative, sustainable support framework by and for the people of Saba.

Comprehensive Training Builds Community Capacity

Led by certified trainer Elton Villarreal, the intensive MHFA program equipped participants with essential skills to recognize, understand, and respond effectively to signs of mental health challenges and substance use disorders. The training empowers community members to provide initial support and guide individuals toward professional help, strengthening Saba’s collective ability to offer compassionate, informed care.

Participants represented key community organizations, including:

• Comprehensive School Saba
• Saba Reach Foundation
• Community Development and Culture Department
• Public Health and Sports Department
• Absolute Child Care

“Empowering our frontline professionals and community members with Mental Health First Aid skills is a pivotal step in reducing stigma and fostering a more supportive environment for all,” said Menno Bakker, Head of the Public Health Department. “Timely, knowledgeable assistance can make a profound difference in someone’s mental health journey.”

Multi-Stakeholder Framework Development

Public Health is advancing a comprehensive mental health framework designed to serve the entire community through a collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach. The framework has already benefited from two productive stakeholder meetings, incorporating insights from healthcare providers, social support organizations, and community leaders. This collaborative process ensures future initiatives are inclusive, effective, and tailored to Saba’s unique needs.

Community Outreach Campaign Launch

To further promote mental health awareness, Public Health—in partnership with the Community Development and Culture Department—will launch outreach campaigns under the slogan “Speak. Ask. Belong. Accept.”

This message embodies the department’s vision for mental health support:

Speak openly about mental health challenges
Ask for help without shame
Belong to a supportive community
Accept oneself and others with compassion

The upcoming initiatives will focus on normalizing mental health conversations, reducing stigma, and fostering a culture of understanding. Additional campaign details will be shared in the coming weeks.

Community Engagement and Future Initiatives

Public Health invites all community members to join these efforts as the island works toward a healthier, more resilient Saba. The department emphasizes that creating a future where mental wellbeing is a shared priority requires collective community engagement and support.