Last week, I had the privilege of participating in a community mental health event, a truly enriching experience. It was a powerful reminder that mental health services are not confined to the four walls of a therapist's office. They can also thrive in the heart of a community, where individuals come together to support and uplift each other on their mental health journeys.
Community mental health services bring a host of advantages. Among them, psychoeducation stands out as a potent tool for fostering awareness and comprehension within the community (Kohort et al., 2018). This approach arms individuals with the understanding and skills to navigate mental health issues, empowering them to steer their mental well-being.
At the event, I had the opportunity to address mental health concerns specific to men. The experience was transformative. I embraced the chance to field community-level queries, share insights on mental health issues arising from the pandemic, and debunk mental health stigmas. The most rewarding part of these events is the post-presentation interactions. It's in these moments that people open up, sharing their past hesitations about seeking therapy. These interactions provide a wealth of understanding and a deep sense of community concern.
Be willing to check on each other. Ask questions, but do not pry. Check on those in your orbit because, in my professional experience, many people have been conditioned to suffer in silence. The source of this behavior is rooted in the mindset that "no one will care about what I am going through." According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness (2024), here are some helpful tips. Talk to them in a space that is comfortable and will have few to no interruptions. Ease into the conversation and respect if the person is not mentally or emotionally in a space to discuss the issue. Be respectful, compassionate, and empathetic to their emotional state.
Reference
Kohrt, B. A., Asher, L., Bhardwaj, A., Fazel, M., Jordans, M. J. D., Mutamba, B. B., Nadkarni, A., Pedersen, G. A., Singla, D. R., & Patel, V. (2018). The Role of Communities in Mental Health Care in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Meta-Review of Components and Competencies. International journal of environmental research and public health, 15(6), 1279. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15061279
National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2024). Tips For How to Help a Person with Mental Illness | NAMI. NAMI. https://www.nami.org/get-involved/nami-faithnet/tips-for-how-to-help-a-person-with-mental-illness/
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