Over the last days MHFA have a few action items to take into account. The first item is to learn how culture influences mental health.
Culture shapes people’s attitudes, beliefs and behaviors when it comes to wellbeing. We know that historically marginalized communities, such as Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) communities, face disproportionate challenges around access to and quality of mental health and substance use care. But also, some cultures might value having family included in mental health decisions, and some people may not. Likewise, some people may turn to a chaplain, spiritual leader or healer for mental health help first rather than a medical doctor, while others may choose a doctor. When you’re helping people who come from cultural backgrounds different from your own, it’s important to understand how to create a culturally safe environment.
• Consider Culture When Communicating with Young People
• Incorporating Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging into Mental Health First Aid
• Supporting Minority Mental Health in the Workplace
Also, see the resources from our September Symposium.
ADVOCATE FOR MENTAL WELLBEING
With one in five adults experiencing a mental health challenge each year, we must all advocate for mental health policies that help increase access to care and reduce stigma surrounding mental health and substance use challenges. Here are a few ways you can speak up for mental wellbeing:
Join an organization like Active Minds and become involved. Get Active and Advocate.
Share mental health resources with friends and family.
Get trained in Mental Health First Aid if you can www.mentalhealthfirstaidusa.org
Be there for a friend or loved one. Listen, don’t judge, Be the Difference.
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