NASSAU, The Bahamas -- Minister of Health and Wellness the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville in his address, October 11, 2024 of the Public Hospitals Authority Academy Graduation Ceremony for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Program stated: "In a nation adapting to and managing the critical shortages of clinical professionals  across several key areas of healthcare, including mental health, your presence here  today as graduates of this challenging program brings renewed hope. Your steadfast journey has paved the way for a brighter future for those individuals struggling with mental health challenges. They will truly benefit from your  expertise and compassion."

The graduation ceremony for the programme was held at Paul Farquharson Centre, Police Headquarters, East Hill Street.

Minister Darville said the training of the 41 Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing specialists comprises a proactive response to the rising demand for mental health services. And that the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian and the recent COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted how  external stressors can exacerbate the demand for critical mental health services.

Minister Darville said: "We are aware of the rising suicide rates, the increasing number of clients seeking  mental health services, and the alarming presence of individuals living with mental health challenges on our streets. These realities highlight the critical need for skilled professionals like you in this essential field of healthcare."

He affirmed: "Graduates, you are now equipped to meet these challenges head-on, armed with the knowledge and skills necessary to enrich the delivery of care at the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre and our other public hospital institutions across the  archipelago."

Nurses from the Department of Public Health were also represented.  Dr. Darville said: "I would like to take this opportunity to also acknowledge the 15 program participants from the Department of Public Health (DPH).  Your involvement reinforces our priority of strengthening services at the community level and  integrating mental health specialists into primary care.

"In our efforts to transform  our healthcare system, the Family Islands are not forgotten. Three of our DPH nurses have already been redeployed to Abaco, Bimini, and Long Island—ensuring  that our Family Island communities have access to vital mental health support and  services."

He continued: "As we move forward, my Ministry remains steadfast in our resolve to work  alongside health professionals and key stakeholders to identify and bridge the gaps  in our mental health services. Through our regulatory agencies, such as the Health  Councils, we will ensure that our frameworks are evidence-based and aligned with regional and global best practices. We are committed to creating support systems that empower you, our nurses, to practice to the fullest extent of your training and  expertise.

"As stated in the speech from the throne, addressing mental health is a national  priority. On coming to office, among other health reforms I was determined to  present legislation that would modernize our mental health policies and care  models."    (BIS Photos/Kristaan Ingraham)