The Government of Antigua and Barbuda is moving to address mental health challenges within the public service, following Cabinet’s recognition of a growing need for psychological support among civil servants.

During Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing, Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant confirmed that the issue was discussed at length. He stated, “Another major issue that was pointed out is not only the physical health of workers, but the mental aspect of workers.”

Merchant noted that several departments had raised concerns about staff experiencing emotional and psychological strain: “A number of departments have expressed that there are challenges with individuals who are facing various forms of mental distress.”

In response, the Cabinet has tasked the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Social Transformation with designing a programme to provide support. “The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Social Transformation have been charged to come up with a plan, a program, to address the mental health of members of the public sector,” Merchant said.

He added that details of the initiative will be announced soon: “That will be addressed very shortly and you will hear from the Cabinet on decisions that are taken in this regard.”

The new programme is part of broader efforts to improve working conditions and staff well-being across the public sector.