Prime Minister Drew Calls for Expansion of Mental Health Professionals to Address Crime and Violence in St. Kitts and Nevis

Basseterre, Saint Kitts, March 12, 2026 (PMO) – Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Hon Dr. Terrance Drew, has underscored the urgent need to strengthen the Federation’s mental health support systems, including increasing the number of psychologists, therapists, and mental health professionals, as part of a national strategy to address crime and violence.

The Prime Minister made the remarks this morning, March 12th, while attending the launch of the animated video “Building a Safe Space at Home” and dialogue session held under the Mental Health Service System Enhancement Project (2024–2027). The initiative, implemented through collaboration with the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF), the Ministry of Health, and LAKE Health and Wellbeing, aims to raise awareness about mental health and promote supportive environments for young people.

During his remarks, Prime Minister Drew highlighted findings from national data analysis that identified mental health challenges as a primary underlying factor contributing to crime and violence in the Federation.

Reflecting on the government’s evidence-based approach to addressing national security challenges, the Prime Minister explained that research conducted in collaboration with regional experts sought to understand the root causes driving violent behavior in society. The Prime Minister also emphasized that addressing crime and violence requires a broader societal strategy that prioritizes mental wellbeing, particularly among young people. He noted that the government’s approach has evolved to incorporate a more comprehensive framework through the establishment of the Secretariat for Human Security and Wellbeing.

“We have gone from just citizen security, so we have gone now to create a secretariat for human security and well being,” he explained, adding that the well-being of citizens must be central to national development efforts.

The Prime Minister further noted that the government’s analysis revealed troubling patterns following the COVID-19 pandemic, including increases in domestic and gender-based violence, reinforcing the need for stronger mental health support and intervention programs.

He stressed that traditional law enforcement alone cannot resolve the deeper social challenges linked to untreated mental health conditions.

“If you don’t deal with this, no amount of police and soldiers will be able to deal with discourage of untreated mental health issues. So as much as you want bigger police and bigger army, we want more psychologists, therapists and programs to deal with mental health.”

Prime Minister Drew also welcomed the project’s focus on adolescents, particularly those between the ages of 15 and 19, noting that national data has identified this demographic as experiencing some of the highest levels of stress and mental health challenges.

He described the initiative as an important step in supporting the government’s wider strategy to reduce crime and violence through prevention, early intervention, and strengthened community support systems.

The Mental Health Service System Enhancement Project forms part of a broader effort to strengthen mental health services, improve community awareness, and encourage open conversations about mental wellbeing across all age groups.

The video launch and dialogue session brought together students, parents, health professionals, educators, and community stakeholders to discuss practical strategies for supporting youth mental health and creating safer, more supportive environments for young people.

The post Prime Minister Drew Calls for Expansion of Mental Health Professionals to Address Crime and Violence in St. Kitts and Nevis appeared first on SKNIS.