Conducted in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and aligned with World Mental Health Day's theme "Mental Health is a universal human right," the survey aims to inform activities associated with achieving Goal #3 of the CARICOM Youth Development Action Plan. This goal focuses on enhancing the health and holistic well-being of adolescents and youth, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Target Three and Four.

Deputy Programme Manager for Youth Development at the CARICOM Secretariat, Michele Small-Bartley, highlighted that the survey results will be used to develop a program. “Exposure to environmental issues associated with climate change and social and economic challenges, further exacerbated by the impact of COVID-19 occurring at the member state level, has affected young people’s ability to navigate their pathway successfully. These issues have heightened youth vulnerability, making them more susceptible to psychosocial, emotional and mental health issues,” she explained.

This program aims to build the capacity of youth practitioners and leaders across the community, enabling them to identify mental health and psychological signs among youth. Mental Health Awareness Day was celebrated globally on October 10, 2023.