The GraceKennedy Foundation (GKF) hosted its 35th Annual Lecture on April 2, 2025, at the UWI Regional Headquarters in Kingston, focusing on a pressing national issue – Breaking the Cycle of Childhood Trauma. The lecture was delivered by the Honourable Professor Wendel Abel, OD, OJ, JP, a distinguished Consultant Psychiatrist at the University of the West Indies.
Professor Abel’s presentation underscored the prevalence and lasting consequences of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in Jamaica, including physical, sexual and emotional abuse, domestic violence and extreme poverty. He emphasized that these traumatic experiences often result in profound mental, behavioural and physical health challenges during childhood and into adulthood.
“Childhood trauma has far-reaching effects that extend beyond the individual, creating cycles of harm that impact families, communities and entire generations,” said Professor Abel. “If we are to break this cycle, we must adopt a comprehensive public health approach that prioritises early intervention, mental health support and systemic change,” he continued.
Drawing on historical context, Professor Abel noted that Jamaica’s culture of violence has roots dating back to slavery, with patterns of belief, behaviours and cultural practices passed down through generations. He presented the findings of several research studies, which give evidence of a range of mental health challenges faced by Jamaican children. Professor Abel explained that early childhood trauma triggers a toxic stress response, which can have long-term implications for a child’s cognitive development, emotional regulation, and on the brain and body.
While acknowledging the progress being made in addressing childhood trauma in Jamaica, Professor Abel highlighted that access to mental health services remains inadequate, with research indicating that nearly 50 per cent of youth impacted by violence are unable to receive the necessary support. He called for a coordinated public health approach, involving increased data sharing, resources, programmes and the scaling up of trauma-informed interventions.
Professor Abel concluded by urging Jamaicans to become more aware of the impact of childhood trauma. “Let us all commit to creating a safer, more stable and nurturing world for our children and ourselves,” he encouraged.
GKF Chairman, Dr Fred Kennedy commended the depth of Professor Abel’s research and his ability to communicate complex ideas in a way that resonated with diverse audiences, “Professor Abel has painted a vivid picture of the enormity of the problem, the root causes and effects of trauma. Most importantly, he left us with the conviction that there is hope for treatment. His presentation compelled us to action––to become advocates for both private and public interventions to address Jamaica’s mental health crisis.”
Dr Kennedy also noted that Professor Abel’s work follows in the tradition of the many scholars who have presented annual public lectures hosted by the GraceKennedy Foundation. “Since 1989 the GraceKennedy Foundation Lecture Series has provided a platform for thought leaders to engage the Jamaican public on pressing national and regional issues. Professor Abel’s work is a continuation of this tradition, and we are confident that his insights will inspire critical dialogue and meaningful action.”
The lecture e-book is available for free download at www.gracekennedy.com. The full lecture is available for viewing on GraceKennedy’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/live/vCkw0AY9P60
