As The Bahamas observes World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2025, a renewed national focus on mental health has emerged in the wake of the devastating impact of Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic. In recent years, Bahamians have begun to acknowledge mental health more openly, breaking long-standing cultural stigmas and pushing for systemic changes in mental health care across the nation.
In 2019, Hurricane Dorian swept through the northern islands of Abaco and Grand Bahama, leaving behind not only physical destruction but also profound psychological scars. This trauma was further compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought widespread anxiety, grief, and social isolation. The twin crises have led to increased calls for deeper investment in mental health services and a national reckoning on how mental health issues are understood and addressed in The Bahamas.
Historically, mental health in The Bahamas has been underfunded and often stigmatized, with many individuals reluctant to seek help due to social and cultural norms. However, the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic have forced a shift in public perception. According to recent reports, there has been a noticeable change in attitudes towards mental health, with more Bahamians openly acknowledging the need for mental health support.
In a landmark study by the University of The Bahamas (UB), 53% of Bahamians reported heightened levels of anxiety and stress during the pandemic. This has led to growing calls for accessible mental health care, especially among youth, frontline workers, and communities severely impacted by the hurricane.
Since Hurricane Dorian, the Ministry of Health has seen a significant uptick in requests for counseling and psychiatric services, particularly in the hardest-hit regions. Local organizations have also expanded outreach programs, with mobile mental health units and telehealth services increasing access to care.
While public awareness has improved, challenges remain in meeting the heightened demand for services. According to the University of The Bahamas, only a fraction of the population has consistent access to professional mental health care. Many individuals, especially in the Family Islands, face significant barriers in accessing services, including financial costs, stigma, and a shortage of trained professionals.
“Times of change, whether it’s good change or bad change, always are pretty difficult for people and I think the universal aspect of it also made people more easily able to talk about mental health, to talk about the challenges,” said Dawn Potter, PsyD, clinical psychologist for Cleveland Clinic.
So, how can you cope if you’re still having a hard time?
Dr. Potter said it’s really going to depend on the person’s individual needs. However, generally speaking, she recommends focusing on your health. Are you getting enough sleep, eating healthy and exercising?
Also, look for activities that help relax you, like journaling or meditating. Another good idea is to connect with family and friends for support.
“We need to check our mindset too, and so shifting our mindset involves trying to refocus on things we can control versus things we can’t control,” she said. “When there’s a lot of uncertainty, people can be vulnerable to focusing on the worst case scenario. But, we need to shift our mindset to what do I really know and what can I do?”
Dr. Potter suggests doing a reassessment of your boundaries, especially if you feel like you are taking on too much. Perhaps someone can lend a hand.
Finally, if your mood doesn’t seem to be improving, consider speaking with a mental health professional.
