President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell wishes the country’s youth happy International Youth Day, which will be observed internationally on Tuesday, August 12.
The theme for this year is “Youth and Mental Health,” under the motto Mental Health Matters.
A new United Nations (UN) report says that 20 per cent of the world’s young people experience a mental health condition each year. The risks are most great when young people transition from childhood to adulthood.
“The theme chosen this year is very much on the ball. We can all recall back in May when a pupil on her way to school was attacked by a man who according to media reports is mentally unstable. This is a clear example of what can happen.
“I visited the Mental Health Foundation Facility in Cay Hill a few years ago, and was impressed with the program that they have in place and the amount of work they do with the little number of staff they have, with respect to dealing with mental health issues in the country. I applaud them for their efforts.
“I extended an invitation to the Mental Health Foundation and they came to Parliament to inform about their work and role within the country.
“Mental health involves everybody young and old. I call on our youth and parents as well as teachers to take some time out and research mental health. International Youth Day is about raising awareness. This issue is a very important one and our youths need to have an understanding of the subject matter. There most probably are some young people who do have mental health conditions within our society.
“Understanding what mental health is, will allow our youth to have the tools to combat discrimination and stigma that comes along for those who are affected with mental health conditions.
“We must continue to educate and create awareness among our youth in the areas that matters. Mental health is important for the health of the Sint Maarten society.
“During my tenure as President of Parliament I have invited many primary and high school students to the House of Parliament so they can get an understanding on the importance and role that parliament plays in our society.
“We must continue to teach and create awareness so our young people can grow into young healthy adults being able to make a positive contribution to the socio-economic development of the nation. Happy International Youth Day to all our youth,” President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Monday.