A Call to Action: Department of Human Services Seeks Community Support in Addressing Mental Health Challenges

Amid the tragic loss of a young life on St. Thomas, the V.I. Department of Human Services is rallying the community for support in mental health intervention. Averil George, the commissioner nominee for the Department, emphasized the crucial role of public awareness and community involvement in preventing such heart-wrenching incidents during a legislative session on Wednesday.

The inquiry into the department’s role in mental health services followed the heart-breaking news of a nine-year-old girl’s death, allegedly by her mother’s hand. This incident, as shared by Governor Bryan Jr., underscores the urgent need for collective vigilance and mental health awareness within the community. The Governor, in a recent briefing, urged Virgin Islanders to embody the spirit of being their brother’s keeper, a sentiment strongly reinforced by Ms. George.

In her impassioned plea to the Senate Committee on Rules and Judiciary, Ms. George underscored the importance of communal empathy and proactive engagement. She stressed that the department’s capacity to intervene is contingent upon public alertness and willingness to report concerns. Highlighting the Department of Human Services’ readiness to provide necessary support, she called on everyone to take an active role in reaching out on behalf of those who may not be able to ask for help themselves.

Furthermore, Ms. George shared promising developments in collaboration between the Department of Human Services and the V.I. Department of Health, aimed at fortifying the territory’s response to mental health challenges. This partnership signifies a strategic approach to enhance the support system for individuals facing mental health crises.

The community’s response to the incident, from public officials to citizens, reflects a deep-seated concern and a collective call to action. Senator Kenneth Gittens voiced the shared sentiment of sadness and reflection on the community’s role in safeguarding its members, highlighting the importance of vigilance in every facet of community life—from schools to places of worship.

This tragic event has catalyzed a comprehensive call to action: for every Virgin Islander to remain alert, compassionate, and committed to supporting one another. As the territory grapples with this loss, the message is clear: mental health is a collective responsibility, and it is incumbent upon each of us to be an active participant in creating a safer, more supportive community.