Bellevue Hospital emphasises power of support systems on Family Day

Laughter echoed through Bellevue Hospital’s Oo Park last Thursday, as families, clients, and staff gathered for a moving and meaningful Family Day celebration. Hosted by the hospital’s Social Work Department and held under the theme, ‘Building Resilience Through Stronger Support Systems’, the event highlighted the vital role of families and caregivers in the mental health recovery journey.

Replacing this month’s Family Support Group meeting, which has served families for more than 17 years, this expanded event provided a welcoming space for clients and caregivers to share moments of connection, encouragement, and joy. Supported by various departments across the hospital, Family Day reflected Bellevue’s belief that recovery is most effective when loved ones are engaged, informed, and actively involved alongside those receiving care.

“This is a time of connection, support, and celebration, a chance to recognise just how essential family, friendship, and community are to the journey of mental health and recovery,” said Senior Social Worker Anya Green.

Green acknowledged that mental illness affects not only those experiencing it directly, but also the families and caregivers who stand by them.

“We know this journey can be incredibly difficult. But healing doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens through meaningful relationships, understanding, and care. That’s why days like today matter.”

This year’s Family Day also focused on caring for the caregivers, offering intentional moments of rest, reflection, and recognition for those who carry the emotional weight of supporting loved ones with mental health conditions.

Attendees enjoyed a variety of uplifting activities, including a paint-and-sip session sponsored by Berger Paints, karaoke, team-building exercises, and group games. Tastee Patties Ltd and Caribbean Broilers (CB) generously provided lunch items, while La Marie Spa & Institute and Total Energies donated gift items in appreciation of families and caregivers.

Representatives from Sagicor and the Registrar General’s Department were also on hand, providing valuable resources and information to assist families navigating their loved ones’ care journeys.

One long-time participant, whose brother was once a patient at Bellevue, shared that she continues to attend the monthly Family Support Group sessions even after his passing.

“Even now, I still come. Being part of this group reminds me how important family support is, and how it can continue even after someone is gone.”

The monthly Family Support Group meetings offer ongoing psychoeducation and a safe, judgement-free space where relatives can share experiences, access tools, and receive guidance on effectively supporting their loved ones. They also provide caregivers with an opportunity to address their own emotional wellbeing and feel less isolated in their journey.

The success of the day was made possible by the dedication of the planning team and the support of departments across Bellevue Hospital.