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 instead offers resources, education, and support to friends, families, teachers, classmates, and carers, helping to guide young people toward appropriate services.

Teen Talk
Teen Talk is a free teen support group for ages 13-17. These sessions take place on the last Monday of each month at 4:30pm, 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 operates several other initiatives including:

• Addison Kelly Mental Health Education Fund
• Emotional Literacy Programme for schools
• Financial Assistance Programme providing financial support to young people aged 5-30 to help cover the cost of accessing mental health services.
• Monthly Lunch & Learn (visit the website to register)
• Sunshine Circles
• Youth Ambassador Programme

Visit their website to find out more about their work and how they can help you if you are struggling.