Mental health has emerged as a growing public health concern in the Caribbean, influenced by socio-economic challenges, cultural perceptions, and limited access to mental health services.
Poverty, unemployment, and the effects of natural disasters and pandemics contribute significantly to stress, anxiety, and depression, leading to long-lasting psychological consequences.
Speaking at the media launch for the upcoming Health Research Conference, Dr. Lisa Indar, Executive Director of the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), emphasized the far-reaching impact of mental health. “Mental health touches each and every one of us, whether personally, through our loved ones, or within our communities. It affects how people relate to others, make decisions, and manage stress. The ability to live a fulfilling life is often dependent on mental well-being. Addressing and restoring mental health is of immediate concern, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
To tackle these pressing concerns, CARPHA, in collaboration with the Government of Barbados and its Ministry of Health and Wellness, will host the 69th Health Research Conference from May 7-9, 2025, at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre in St. Michael, Barbados. This premier gathering of health professionals will provide a platform for research-sharing and networking among over 200 delegates, featuring more than 160 oral and poster presentations.
A regional commitment to public health research
In his opening remarks, Dr. Kenneth George, Chief Medical Officer of Barbados, highlighted CARPHA’s pivotal role in regional health research. “CARPHA has been instrumental in advancing scientific and public health research for decades. Through data analysis and evidence-based research, CARPHA influences health policies not only in the Caribbean but on the global stage. Additionally, CARPHA provides technical support to its 26 Member States in areas such as surveillance, epidemiology, port health, vector control, non-communicable diseases, and reference laboratory services.”
Representing the Minister of Health and Wellness, Senator The Most Honourable Jerome Walcott, Mr. Wayne Marshall, Permanent Secretary, expressed the Government of Barbados’ enthusiasm in hosting the conference for the first time since 2013. “We are delighted to once again bring together health professionals, researchers, and policymakers from across the region and beyond. This collaboration with CARPHA ensures that the conference, along with its pre-conference events, will serve as a platform for groundbreaking research and clinical findings that shape public health policies.”
Marshall also extended gratitude to CARPHA, sponsors, and participants, urging all stakeholders to elevate discussions on mental health and other critical public health concerns to foster a healthier Caribbean future.
CARPHA Conference highlights and workshops
The conference will attract Chief Medical Officers (CMOs), researchers, physicians, nurses, psychologists, environmental health officers, and public health officials from across the Caribbean, Latin America, North America, and Europe. Additionally, local, regional, and international organizations will showcase their programs, innovations, products, and services.
Pre-conference meetings and workshops will include:
- Meeting of CARICOM Chief Medical Officers
- Pandemic Fund and Antimicrobial Resistance Forum
- Monitoring and Evaluation Workshop
- Meeting of the Caribbean Vector-Borne Disease Network
- Regional Health Communication Network Meeting
With mental health at the forefront of this year’s discussions, the 69th Health Research Conference aims to advance policies and interventions that will improve mental health care and overall public health across the Caribbean region.
