Wellness & Belonging: The Metrics of a Good Life

Beyond GDP: food, housing, mental health, and belonging as measures of progress.

A thriving economy depends on more than numbers—it depends on people being well. In the BVI, the lingering emotional and psychological impacts of Irma, Maria, and COVID-19 remain largely unaddressed. At the same time, rising costs of food, housing shortages, and everyday financial stress continue to erode the quality of life for many. This session confronts the realities behind our wellness crisis and asks: What does it truly mean to belong and feel supported in this community? What systems must be in place—from mental health services to affordable housing—to ensure that every resident, from youth to elderly, has a real chance at stability, dignity, and joy?

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