Press Release
The Ministry of Health & Wellness, through the Mental Health Programming Unit and in partnership with the Bahamas Psychological Association, has successfully trained and certified 315 individuals in Psychological First Aid (PFA) throughout the Family Islands of The Bahamas.
Between August 2024 and May 2026, training sessions were conducted in communities across fourteen Family Islands, certifying healthcare professionals, educators, social workers, law enforcement officers, community leaders and other residents. Participants represented a diverse cross-section of Bahamian society.
Building on the success of the Family Island outreach initiative, the Ministry of Health & Wellness scheduled a series of free two-day Psychological First Aid training sessions in New Providence from July through September 2026. Members of the public have responded positively and all five training sessions offered have reached full capacity. Registration is now closed.
Psychological First Aid is an evidence-based approach that equips individuals with the skills to provide immediate emotional support, reduce distress, and connect people with appropriate services following crises, disasters, and other emergencies. The training helps strengthen the community’s ability to respond to psychological needs.
For additional information regarding the Ministry’s Mental Health initiatives and other Psychological First Aid training opportunities, please email the Mental Health Programming Unit of the Ministry of Health & Wellness at christinajohnson@bahamas.gov.bs and kennitasaunders@bahamas.gov.bs.
