by Roxanne Thompson
- 988 toll-free service launched
- Calls answered by trained responders using crisis intervention protocols
- Public awareness campaign to follow launch
Grenada officially launched its toll-free 988 mental health crisis hotline on Tuesday, 28 July, providing immediate support for people experiencing suicidal thoughts, emotional distress and other mental health crises.
The service was unveiled during a launch ceremony at the Radisson Beach Resort attended by government officials, healthcare professionals, educators, students, parents and faith-based organisations.
“Support is only 3 numbers away,” said Hon. Delma Thomas, Minister for Mental Health, Wellness, and Religious Affairs, who described suicide prevention as a shared national responsibility and encouraged the public to seek help without fear or stigma. To ensure the public knows exactly what to expect when reaching out, ministry officials addressed key operational details at the launch:
Who answers the calls?
Calls are answered by trained responders who follow standardised crisis intervention protocols to de-escalate situations, provide emotional support and maintain caller confidentiality.
What if they’re too scared to call?
Director of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Josh Hector acknowledged that reaching out can be difficult during an emotional crisis. “We encourage people to choose life. Even if they feel there is nobody available to listen, someone will be available at the other end of that hotline to hear from them, to offer support and assurance.”
Is the conversation private?
Hector also confirmed that the hotline responders sign up to strict confidentiality standards and are required to adhere to them.
Can someone call on behalf of another person?
Yes. Friends or family members concerned about a loved one can call 988 or contact the service via the WhatsApp numbers provided by the ministry.
What happens after the call?
The hotline serves as an entry point into Grenada’s broader mental health support network. Depending on the caller’s needs, callers may be referred for counselling, psychiatric services at The General Hospital, or other support services, including assistance for domestic violence and other social crises.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mental Health, Wellness and Religious Affairs Naomi Jeremiah at the launch of Grenada’s 988 Suicide Prevention hotline. Photo: NOW Grenada
How is the service funded?
Permanent Secretary Naomi Jeremiah confirmed that the initiative is financed through the ministry’s budget, with additional support from community volunteers and international partners, including the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO).
Officials also highlighted the importance of early intervention, noting that suicide remains a significant global public health concern and emphasising that timely access to support can save lives. The launch also featured a personal video testimony from Pastor Anton Strachan, who shared his experience of surviving suicidal thoughts as a teenager and encouraged others to reach out for help during difficult times.
Students from Presentation Brothers’ College (PBC) and Grenada Boys’ Secondary School (GBSS) participated in the programme, performing mental health awareness jingles that promote hope, resilience, and the importance of speaking openly about emotional struggles.
Officials acknowledged that a hotline alone cannot address every mental health challenge but described 988 as an important step in expanding access to crisis support. Public awareness initiatives, including infomercials and educational broadcasts, are expected to roll out across the tri-island state in the coming weeks.
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