Trinidad and Tobago advanced its mental health agenda through a comprehensive evaluation of the National Mental Health Policy 2019–2029, with technical support from PAHO. 

The evaluation assessed implementation progress toward a decentralized, community , and rights-based model of care, aligned with international standards. PAHO provided methodological guidance, international benchmarks, and technical expertise to support rigorous data collection and analysis, including document reviews, site visits, and multisectoral stakeholder consultations. This support strengthened national capacity for evidence based monitoring and evaluation and ensured that findings translated into actionable recommendations. The evaluation identified strengths in leadership, community based services, suicide prevention, and workforce development, while highlighting gaps in human resources, information systems, and data management. 

By grounding policy refinement in robust evidence, PAHO’s contribution supports more responsive and integrated mental health services, improved continuity of care, and stronger system resilience, contributing to better mental health outcomes and reduced stigma at the population level.

Photo caption: PAHO and Ministry of Health participants in the National Mental Health Policy 2019–2029 stakeholder evaluation meeting in Tobago
Credit: PAHO Trinidad and Tobago