Recent studies have ranked suicide as the third leading cause of death among 15 to 29-year-olds worldwide. With these alarming statistics, the Health Ministry, in collaboration with UNICEF and UWI have launched U-Matter, a text-based chatline operated by trained post-graduate UWI students who serve as listeners. The service is geared towards those ages 15-29.
Via WhatsApp, users can message 763-7336 to access support from one of the 52 trained, volunteer listeners. Acting CMO Dr Anita Laloo said the ministry has been strengthening its mental health system in the areas of governance and leadership, service delivery, human resources and training, mental health promotion and prevention and information systems and research.
