UNICEF calls for greater investment in mental health for children and adolescents during UN General Assembly

• Nearly 16 million adolescents aged 10–19 live with a mental disorder in Latin America and the Caribbean. 
• Suicide is the third most common cause of death among adolescents aged 15–19 in the Caribbean.
• Caribbean countries allocate only 4.3% of their healthcare budgets to mental health. 

With efforts to create environments that foster both mental and physical well-being across the Latin America and Caribbean Countries (LAC), Mr. Nicolas Pron, Area Representative of UNICEF Guyana and Suriname and Special Representative to CARICOM, has made a call for greater investment in mental health and support services for children and adolescents. 

He was at the time making the keynote address at the United Nations General Assembly Side Event hosted by The First Lady of the Republic of Suriname, Her Excellency Mellisa Santokhi-Seenacherry, in her role as Chair of the Spouses of CARICOM Leaders Action Network (SCLAN), during the 79th UN General Assembly in New York on September 27, 2024.  

This year's theme, "Investing in a Sustainable Future to Enable Children and Adolescents to Reach Their Full Potential: A Discussion About Physical and Mental Health," brought together First Ladies, spouses of heads of state, UN directors, NGOs, and youth to advocate for and invest in the physical and mental health of children and adolescents in the Caribbean and Latin America.

The event in partnership with UNICEF Suriname and the United Nations Foundation, was aimed at raising awareness about the mental health challenges faced by children and young people in the Latin America and Caribbean region, while advocating for greater investments, policy changes and global cooperation and increased partnerships, to achieve the SDGs, and secure a brighter future for every child and adolescent.

Mr. Pron during the keynote remarks highlighted the challenges adolescents face while noting how crucial a multi-sectoral approach is needed to help address those challenges. “Investing in child and adolescent health is not merely a matter of providing immediate care; it is about laying the foundation for a healthier, more resilient generation. By focusing on mental health, we recognize the importance of emotional well-being as a cornerstone of overall health. Adolescents who feel supported, understood, and empowered are better equipped to navigate life's challenges and contribute positively to society,” he said.   

During the event, an engaging panel discussion brought to light innovative solutions and investments to address the health challenges faced by children across the region. Panel member and national of Suriname, Dr. Sonja Caffe, PAHO's Regional Adolescent Health Advisor, emphasized the importance of holistic approaches to adolescent health and underscored the need for integrating mental health support into health systems. 

Dr. Cecilia Mundaca Shah, UN Foundation's Associate Vice-President of Global Health, highlighted the role of partnerships in scaling up effective interventions. Young panel member, 28-year-old, Dr. David Johnson, President, and Founder of Let’s Unpack It, focused on youth-driven solutions for mental health. Lastly, Mr. Pascal Barollier, Chief Engagement and Information Officer at Gavi Vaccine Alliance, discussed the critical role vaccines play in ensuring overall health and well-being, especially for vulnerable populations. Their collective expertise reinforced the urgency of multi-sectoral collaboration to secure a healthier future for children and adolescents. 

The First Lady of the Republic of Suriname, reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for the mental health of children and adolescents, stating: “We cannot talk about sustainable futures without prioritizing mental health. Our children and youth must have the support they need to thrive.”

UNICEF Suriname has been working closely with the First Lady over the past years to champion mental health, ensuring children and adolescents receive the mental health care they need.

The event marked a critical moment to reinforce the importance of partnerships, investments, and global cooperation in securing the future of today’s youth. By investing in physical and mental health, the global community can help create a generation that is healthy, resilient, and equipped to reach their full potential. 

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This story was first published by UNICEF Guyana and Suriname.