What We Do
What We Do
Most Recent Achievement
The MHA completed construction of a Resource/Day Centre in Belize City for the homeless and mentally ill. The Welcome Centre opened in July 2013 and is managed by a board comprised of a broad range of stakeholders under the direction of a pro- fessional administrator.
Although we have received support from government and the private sector there is a need for continuous work to ensure sustainability and growth.
The MHA is striving to achieve its role in advocacy, education and service while remaining responsive to change and current events. Our members are committed to improving the mental health of all Belizeans with a special emphasis on improving the quality of life for people with mental illnesses.
Objectives of the MHA
- To serve as an advisory body to the Ministry of Health on issues related to mental health.
- To serve as a national advocate for patients and their families.
- To promote public awareness and education on the nature and treatment of mental illness and positive steps to improve mental health.
- To undertake specific initiatives related to the implementation of the Community Mental Health Project and the wider Mental Health Programmes.
- To recommend, through the Ministry of Health, changes in the National Policy pertinent to improving mental health and support relevant legislative change
Major Accomplishments
- Legislation to decriminalise suicide attempts (1998)
- The construction of a four bed Acute Unit in Belmopan for Psychiatric Pa- tients with funding from the govern- ment of Japan. This was completed in January 2001 and became fully functionally in June 2001.
- Annual activities to celebrate world Mental Health Day including High School Quizzes, Debates and Speech Contests.
- Annual Conference on Mental Health Topics.
- Construction and on going support of a Resource Centre for the homeless and mentally ill in Belize City.
