The Alex Panton Foundation has announced that the theme of this year’s Youth Mental Health Symposium will be ‘Let’s talk about trauma’.
The sixth annual event will be held on Saturday, 18 Feb., from 10am to 4pm at the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman.
According to a press release announcing the symposium, this year’s agenda will include a range of topics from students, parents, researchers, clinicians and policymakers “to help us understand the effects of trauma that are often not seen, and what the community can do to help”.
It noted that the symposium hopes to create a safe space for important discussions and to connect youth and parents with local mental health experts.
Jane Panton, chairperson and co-founder of the Alex Panton Foundation, said in the release, “It is vital to address a major cause of mental health issues – particularly in our young people. Trauma. While it may be a difficult conversation, APF is dedicated to helping our young people, parents, and anyone struggling with its effects.
“Trauma has had such an immense effect in our society, that there is a need to discuss it in a public format so that everyone has a chance to find the resources they need. We must all feel that we are seen and heard, and that for any difficult situation, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and together, we can overcome it.”
Among the speakers at the symposium will be Dr. Erica Lam, Dr. Stenette Davis, Rhonda Kelly, Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale, Shannon Seymour, Brandon Ramakko, and Dr. Stephanie Edwards. Health Minister Sabrina Turner will deliver the opening address, while Governor Martyn Roper will give welcoming remarks.
A panel discussion called ‘Surviving my trauma’ will be moderated by Dr. Kathryn Whittaker.
For more information on this year’s speakers and their topics, visit alexpantonfoundation.ky/2023-youth-mental-health-symposium.
The release noted that spaces are limited, and anyone who might benefit from this conversation is advised to register as soon as possible.
Registration on the day will begin from 9:30am.
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