The Tribune

By AVA TURNQUEST

Tribune Digital Editor

aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

THE Bahamas Psychological Association (BPA) says it has seen increased demand for mental health support in 2025, with notable spikes in calls to its helplines during certain months.

A BPA representative told The Tribune that while the association does not maintain centralised national data on the total number of people seeking counselling, its helplines have recorded increased outreach this year. The BPA’s helpline was first established in 2019.

“Calls have varied over the years, but in 2025 the most frequent months were March and September, both of which recorded over 15 calls and messages compared to the usual average of about five,” the representative said.

The association operates several free helplines that allow individuals to call, text, or message via WhatsApp, and callers are often referred for in-person counselling sessions when appropriate.

According to the BPA, people contact the helplines for a range of concerns, including family disputes, anxiety, emotional distress, and requests for counselling. The most common reason for calling, however, remains the desire to access counselling support.

“The most common concern persons call the helpline about is seeking counselling support,” the representative said.

The association also said it is seeing greater willingness among members of the public to seek mental health assistance, which it attributes in part to the accessibility and confidentiality of its services.

The BPA’s comments come against the backdrop of a sharp increase in suicides in The Bahamas in 2025. As previously reported by The Tribune, police recorded 13 alleged suicides by mid-December, a 63 percent increase compared to last year and the highest total in at least six years. Attempted suicide cases have also risen sharply.

Asked about the reasons behind the increase, particularly compared to the pandemic years, the BPA cautioned against oversimplification.

“The reason someone would choose to die by suicide varies, there is no one answer,” the representative said. “Persons have various life challenges and struggles that they feel they cannot overcome, and unfortunately, suicide is a temporary solution that cannot be undone.”

The association urged the public to seek help and to look out for one another.

“We want to encourage society to know that you are not alone. You matter and we care,” the BPA representative said. “There are qualified and confidential mental health professionals available, free of charge, who are ready to help.”

The toll-free helpline numbers are: 812-0576, 816-3799, and 815-5850. The association also has dedicated helplines for men: 821-8123; creole speakers: 454-2993; and children and adolescents: 819-7652.v