October 11, 2026
KOLONIA, Pohnpei — Governor Stevenson A. Joseph has called for people affected by mental health challenges to have a greater voice in shaping services and policies, issuing a World Mental Health Day proclamation that urges action beyond awareness.
Signed October 10, Executive Proclamation No. 26-11 carries the theme “Lived Experiences Heard, Real Voices, Real Change.” It calls on families, schools, workplaces, public officials, health professionals and community leaders to listen without judgment and help people access appropriate support.
The proclamation identifies stigma, discrimination, social isolation and barriers to timely services as continuing difficulties for people living with mental health challenges, their families and caregivers.
It emphasizes that their experiences are essential to understanding community needs, improving services and developing effective, lasting responses. The voices of young people, families, caregivers, advocates and affected communities should be incorporated into decisions that influence their lives, the proclamation states.
Joseph also calls for people with lived experience to participate meaningfully in mental health planning, policy development, service delivery and decision-making.
The proclamation describes mental health as an essential part of overall well-being and the strength of individuals, families and communities. It stresses that lasting progress requires sustained work on prevention, early intervention, access to care, recovery and inclusion.
Among its calls to action are challenging discrimination, encouraging respectful discussion of mental and emotional well-being, and supporting individuals and families seeking assistance.
Sharing personal experiences can strengthen understanding and encourage others to seek support, the proclamation states, while affirming that no one should face mental health challenges alone.
It concludes by calling for listening to lead to practical improvements in community support and for every person to be heard, respected and treated with dignity.
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