By Dr. Felisha Saunders-Mcbride | Executive Director
The Caribbean is no stranger to crisis, but our region is also marked by its incredible capacity to adapt, learn, and lead. Through this project, the Bahama Resilience Center (BRC) has continued to support and strengthen mental health infrastructure across the Caribbean by raising awareness, expanding skills, and fostering partnerships. From public platforms to professional training, every effort this quarter moved us closer to a stronger, more mentally resilient Caribbean.
This quarter, Dr. Andy Laing represented the Center on platforms such as DOVE Radio and ZNS, addressing critical issues including male mental health and suicide prevention. By utilizing accessible media channels, we helped reduce stigma and brought much-needed visibility to topics that are often overlooked, particularly among Caribbean men.
Recognizing the trusted role of churches in Caribbean communities, we engaged faith-based groups in powerful conversations on mental wellness:
These sessions helped bridge spiritual care with emotional health, reinforcing mental wellness as a whole-community priority.
We conducted an interactive training for Careminders at the Grand Bahama Children’s Home and the Ministry of Social Services Placement Division. Facilitated by Dr. Saunders-McBride, Lakiska Russell-Johnson, and Stacey Bonnett, the session explored neurodiversity, behavior strategies, and inclusive care. We also donated ASD visual tools to support caregivers’ daily routines, a practical investment in dignity and developmental wellness.
From June 9th to 13th, Dr. Saunders-McBride presented at the Caribbean Regional Conference of Psychology, positioning GBRC as a thought leader in disaster mental health. Engaging with peers from across the region helped solidify best practices and spark collaboration, ensuring our services remain aligned with evolving needs.
On June 11th, GBRC staff attended a proposal writing and compliance workshop hosted by the Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC). Sessions focused on FATF Recommendation 8, the NGO Code of Conduct, and other accountability tools. This training enhanced our capacity to manage grants and establish partnerships for lasting impact.
This quarter marked the launch of the Caribbean Mental Health Alliance & Action Plan CMHAAP, our multi-nation initiative aimed at identifying gaps and opportunities in the Caribbean’s mental health systems. The landscape assessment is now underway and will inform future collaboration in the following areas:
CMHAAP represents our commitment to building stronger systems that work before, during, and after a crisis.
We conducted a 3-day WHO-endorsed training in Problem Management Plus (PM+), preparing community volunteers to support individuals facing common emotional and practical challenges. Participants left the training equipped and empowered, helping us build a local support network for early intervention and community-based recovery.
On April 15, the Pregnant with Destiny Podcast, Dr. Saunders-McBride spoke on generational trauma, offering tools for families to break cycles and foster emotional safety.
On May 26, during Mental Health Awareness Month, she joined the Pilot Club for a webinar on work-life balance, where she urged attendees to “give the world the best of you, not what’s left of you.”
On June 25, Dr. Saunders-McBride was invited to speak within the “My Time to Thrive in 2025” private community, emphasizing that self-care and wellness are essential components of productivity and success. Her message “you cannot pour from an empty cup” resonated deeply with listeners juggling multiple roles.
Each of these appearances served as a bridge between clinical knowledge and lived experience, helping communities connect with tools for healing and resilience.
This quarter has shown that mental health capacity is not just about services, it’s about voices, visibility, and vision. Whether training caregivers, leading public conversations, or building regional frameworks, our goal remains the same: a Caribbean that is not only disaster-ready but also mentally strong, starting with the Bahamas and extending beyond its borders. Thank you for your continued partnership as we push forward with boldness, wisdom, and heart.
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