The BVI Health Services Authority’s (BVIHSA) Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services continues to receive grand recognition for its “Be Mindful” mental health campaign. The team has received kudos from both the World Psychiatric Association (WPA) and the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).

Both nods of recognition were in response to the 2023 series of impactful initiatives and collaborations. Such partnerships featured a collaboration with a British consultant and sister Overseas Territory Bermuda. As part of this collaboration joint reports were submitted to WPA and CARPHA. 

In these submissions, the BVIHSA was listed as the main author due to its stellar performance and outstanding results. Thesubmitted reports highlighted the successes and methodologies of the Be Mindful campaign; and led to prestigious invitations from both organizations.  Members of the BVIHSA Community Mental Health Team presented at CARPHA’s meeting that was held in St Lucia in April and the WPA’s international conferencethat was held in Iceland in June.

The CARPHA conference was attended by Community Mental Health team members Mrs. Kimberely Parker-Fraser and Mrs. Shanna-Kaye James-Bell. Their presentation on the Be Mindful campaign was met with enthusiasm from Caribbean colleagues, who expressed keen interest in the campaign’s tactics and sustainability.

In June, Dr. Virginia Rubaine, Director of the Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Unit showcased the campaign's achievements at the World Psychiatric Conference. Presenting alongside representatives from Australia, Austria, and the United Kingdom. Dr. Rubaine highlighted the BVI's innovative approach to mental health, marking a significant milestone for the Virgin Islands on the global stage.

Dr. June Samuel, Acting CEO of BVIHSA, expressed her pride in the team’s accomplishments: "We are thrilled by the international recognition of our Be Mindful campaign. The dedication and hard work of our Mental Health Unit, led by Dr. Virginia Rubaine, Mrs. Kimberely Parker-Fraser, and Mrs. Shanna-Kaye James-Bell, have put the BVI at the forefront of mental health innovation. This global acknowledgment reinforces our commitment to providing world-class healthcare services."

The BVIHSA remains dedicated to enhancing mental health services and will continue to strive for excellence in all its initiatives.