The Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor, Richinel Brug is proud to announce the launch of the mental health awareness workshop led by Ms. Alexandrine R. Peterson, M.Ed., Clinical Mental Health Counselor, on May 24, 2025.
Alexandrine brings a wealth of experience in conducting psychoeducational assessments and providing counseling for children and adolescents aged 6 to 13. She has worked extensively with young individuals facing learning and developmental challenges such as ADHD, dyslexia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and depression.
In addition to her clinical work, Alexandrine has designed and facilitated workshops for educators, parents, and caregivers on topics including emotional regulation, behavior management, and understanding learning differences.
On May 24, Alexandrine will lead a workshop open to anyone involved in the lives of children — whether you are a parent, teacher, counselor, family member, or friend. Participants will gain critical skills in recognizing early signs of emotional distress and potential suicide risks in children and adolescents.
Key Topics Include:
· How to recognize emotional distress and warning signs
· How to initiate open, supportive conversations
· How to guide children toward professional help
Why is it important to attend? “What we are witnessing on Sint Maarten is a concerning rise in mental health challenges, particularly among young children. Tragically, we have seen cases where children have taken their own lives.” This is not a trend that I as Minister, wish to see continue.
“ We must act now to reverse this trend. But where do we begin, and how do we move forward? This workshop represents a crucial first step.
The more people who are able to recognize the warning signs, the better we can respond and the more lives we can save. Our youth are our future. If they cannot see a future for themselves, then it is our responsibility to help them find one.”
Are you ready to take on this responsibility?
For more information or to register, please contact:
The Ministery of Health, Social Development and Labor at
Jamie.mourillon@sintmaartengov.org or alexandrine.peterson@gmail.com
https://www.sintmaartengov.org/news/Pages/Minister-Brug-announces-upcoming-Workshop-When-to-ring-the-bell-Recognizing-and-Responding-to-Emotional-Distress-in-Childre.aspx
