Alex Panton Foundation
About
The Alex Panton Foundation (APF) is a Non-Profit Organisation with the primary objective of raising awareness of mental illnesses affecting children and young adults in the Cayman Islands, with a particular focus on anxiety and depression. They also work to mitigate the stigma associated with mental health issues and influence policy to improve the lives of people affected by poor mental health, such as campaigning to improve health insurance coverage for mental illness.
The Foundation was established in memory of Alex Panton, who succumbed to the effects of severe depression at the age of 16.
The APF does not provide mental health treatment but aims to provide hope and resources to friends, family, teachers, classmates and carers through our various initiatives, to help save the lives of children and young adults struggling with mental illness.
Teen Talk
Teen Talk is a free teen support group for ages 13-17. These sessions take place on the first Monday of each month at 5.30pm, online via Zoom, and are facilitated by Dr Shari Smith of Life Options. Email info@alexpantonfoundation.ky for more information and the Zoom link.
Kids Helpline
The Kids Helpline is a project created by the Alex Panton Foundation that offers educational materials on mental health topics, in addition to listening services by trained volunteers. Their confidential and anonymous phone and text line for teens and young adults is available Thursday-Sunday, 3pm-9pm.
Call them on (345) 649 5437 or text online through their website or app. The app is available to download through the Apple & Google Play Stores.
Breaking Barriers
Breaking Barriers is a free adult support group for ages 18-30, taking place on the third Tuesday of each month, from 6.30pm-7.30pm, online via Zoom. Email info@alexpantonfoundation.ky for more information and the Zoom link.
The Alex Panton Foundation operate several other initiatives including:
- Alex's Place Youth Mental Health Hub
- Emotional Literacy Programme for schools
- Financial Assistance Programme for young people in need of mental health support
- Youth Ambassador Programme
Visit their website to find out more about their work and how they can help you if you are struggling.
