April 2025 marks a new development in mental health support for St Helena with the introduction of a specialized online resource, "www.mindingmymind.sh". This platform aims to assist young adults on the island by providing essential resources and self-help strategies focused on mental health.
Developed through extensive research into the specific needs of young residents, "www.mindingmymind.sh" serves as an introductory tool to mental health resources. Although it is not a substitute for professional healthcare services, the website offers tailored advice and valuable information designed with the local community in mind.
The website includes several key features:
- Saint-friendly mood management, offering various self-help strategies that address mood and well-being in a local context.
- Access to local and international resources that have been vetted for effectiveness.
- Tools for self-guided mood and sleep monitoring to help users recognize when to seek further assistance.
- Customized resilience-building strategies developed using feedback from the local population.
The initiative was led by Dr. Tara Murphy, who conducted research from 2019 to 2022, which laid the groundwork for this initiative. As Dr. Murphy stated, “It is a space where people from St Helena can access evidence-based approaches and helps Saints manage their own mental health. We have strived to create a platform that feels personal and relevant to Saints, incorporating their valuable feedback. Our hope is that www.mindingmymind.sh will offer practical support for mood management, promote positive activities, and contribute to overall well-being.”
The website emphasizes user privacy by ensuring no personal data is collected during its use.
In addition to the launch, an evaluation process will run from April to August 2025, during which users are encouraged to provide feedback. Young adults aged 16 and older who wish to participate can contact Dr. Tara Murphy at Tara.Murphy@nottingham.ac.uk.
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