In the lead-up to World Mental Health Day, three youth-led advocacy groups – Bermuda Is Love, the Youth Advisory Board [YAB] of the Youth Mental Health Plan, and the National Youth Policy [NYP] – are joining forces to host a public panel discussion on Youth Mental Health Legislation.
A spokesperson said, “The event will be held on Monday, October 6, from 6:00pm to 7:30pm at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute [BUEI]. Its goal is to educate the public on how current legislation impacts young people’s access to mental health care, while sparking dialogue around the urgent need for reform.
“The panel will be moderated by Dr Shawnee Basden, clinical psychologist, and will feature opening and closing remarks from youth representatives of the NYP and YAB.
“Panelists include:
Justice Juan Wolffe – Supreme Court Justice
Dr Sandy De Silva – Executive Director, Family Centre
Chanika Darrell – Lived Experience Representative
Dr Peter Yates – Child Psychiatrist at MWI
Dr Zina Zuill – Department of Child and Family Services
“This timely discussion takes place ahead of a full month of mental health awareness activities, including.
World Mental Health Day – October 10
Youth Mental Health Summit – October 16–17
Bermuda Mental Health Foundation Conference – October 24–25
“In a joint statement, the youth groups emphasized the importance of amplifying young voices in shaping policy:
“Now is the time to listen to young people and ensure our legislation reflects their lived reality. This panel is just the beginning of a broader call for reform.”
Aaron Crichlow, founder of Bermuda Is Love, states: “When we create laws that protect young people’s mental health, we invest in a healthier, more compassionate Bermuda for generations to come.”
The spokesperson said, “All are welcome. Admission is free.”
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