May is internationally recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month. The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission has issued a press statement revealing that together with its development partners, it joins the global community in promoting the theme: “Turn Awareness Into Action.”
Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949, by Mental Health America to increase the awareness of mental health and its implications for quality of life.
Yet, within the OECS, mental health continues to be a vital yet frequently neglected component of public health, says the Commission. Challenges such as inadequate mental health services, policy deficiencies, and societal stigma have impeded progress and silenced many voices. Therefore, this year’s observance serves not only as a moment for reflection but also as a rallying cry for action.
The theme “Turn Awareness Into Action” encourages moving beyond mere recognition to actively engaging in meaningful dialogue, community development, and establishing support mechanisms that emphasize mental well-being. It calls for the unveiling of the often-invisible struggles individuals face and promotes the creation of inclusive environments where mental health is openly discussed and actively supported.
As part of this regional initiative, the OECS Commission urges individuals to wear green on May 30 as a visible sign of solidarity with those experiencing mental health difficulties. The color green symbolizes hope, resilience, and renewal—core values of this campaign. Participants are encouraged to join the movement by sharing photos of themselves dressed in green using the hashtag #OECSMentalHealth.
“Recognising mental health as essential to holistic well-being is not just a health issue—it is a societal one,” stated Dr. Roxanne Brizan-St. Martin, Programme Director of Health, Social Inclusion, and Social Protection at the OECS Commission. “This month, we are not only raising awareness but also demanding concrete action.”
The campaign emphasizes the 5 Cs of Mental Wellness:
– Connection – building community through shared experiences
– Coping – promoting healthy strategies for emotional resilience
– Calmness – emphasizing mental tranquility and mindfulness
– Care – providing empathy and active support to others
– Compassion – fostering safe, inclusive spaces through kindness
The OECS Commission urges citizens, civil society, and both public and private sector stakeholders to embrace these principles by:
– Cultivating a sense of community through shared stories and mutual understanding
– Demonstrating solidarity through consistent acts of care and support
– Practicing empathy by valuing diverse experiences and committing to ongoing learning
By transforming awareness into tangible actions, society can shift attitudes, break down stigma, and foster a culture where mental health is valued equally with physical health.
According to the OECS Commission, the message is clear: let us act, listen, and support — because mental health matters.
Local Resources
Suicide Prevention Crisis Lines
- Primary Crisis Hotline:
- Phone Number: 1-767-449-2231 (Dominica Red Cross Mental Health Hotline)
- Hours of Operation: 24/7
- Additional Details: Provides free and confidential support for individuals in distress, focusing on emotional and psychological well-being.
- Emergency Line:
- Phone Number: 999 (Police), 911 (Medical Emergency)
- Notes: National emergency lines for immediate assistance, including mental health crises.
Additional information about the mental health landscape in Dominica may be found here.
Find World Health Organization’s mental health profile on Dominica here.
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