How can you advocate for individuals with mental health conditions?

A lot of people are still oblivious to mental health and its impact on our lives. There was a time when basic computer training skills was part of the curriculum in Nigerian schools. We can adopt this strategy in creating mental health awareness and advocacy. Mental health awareness, destigmatization, and advocacy should be infused into the school curriculum from elementary schools. Workplaces, worship centers, and different organizations should also be passionate about advocating for mental health awareness and its destigmatization.

There are some fabulous TED talks about various different mental health topics. These resources are great for both educating your self and signposting to others. I used one by Charlie Webster who talks candidly about the experience of having a PTSD flashback. I sent the link to my manager and other colleagues as a way of helping explain what happens to me. I had a mixed response but at least felt like I had done my part to try and educate the people I worked with.

Advocating for individuals with mental health conditions involves several key actions. First, educate yourself and others to reduce stigma and misconceptions. Use your voice to raise awareness and promote open conversations about mental health. Support policies and initiatives that improve mental health services, access, and funding. Offer a listening ear and non-judgmental support to those in need. Finally, encourage individuals to seek professional help and provide resources for mental health care. By championing understanding, empathy, and better mental health services, you can make a significant impact on behalf of those facing mental health challenges.

In the sphere of mental health advocacy, advocating for individuals with mental health conditions begins by recognizing mental health as an intrinsic component of overall societal well-being. We must prioritize policy reforms that destigmatize mental health, allocate resources for accessible care, and promote awareness at all levels of governance. Further, it's vital to integrate lived experiences into policy-making, ensuring that those directly impacted have a voice. Ultimately, a society that champions mental well-being not only supports its vulnerable members but also enriches its collective resilience and productivity.

I was extremely lucky to have had a wonderful Manager who once informed was ultra supportive and gave me control over decisions to work in the office or not, especially if I had a bad night, all I had to do was text her and let her know and I could work from home, take time outs and schedule appointments. She never once questioned my ability to do my job or that I would do everything in my power to achieve the best outcome for the company. I I felt trusted and not judged, supported and had some small control, at a time when that’s exactly what I needed.

For one to effectively advocate for individuals with mental health challenges, one needs to learn more about mental health, understand what it encompasses, the goals it wants to achieve, combat stigma, and learn to challenge and engage in the actual work of advocating not just talking about it. One also needs to be empathetic, compassionate listener, promote seeking professional help, and participate in policy change efforts. Volunteering and sharing personal stories can make a meaningful impact, as can creating safe spaces and seeking allies to amplify your advocacy. Staying informed and committed, in advocacy can help build a more empathetic and inclusive society.

Sadly my experience of HR regarding the matter of my mental health wasn’t great. The person responsible was clearly out of their depth and really didn’t know what to do or say to deal with the situation. I wish I’d had someone who was prepared to fight for me. I decided to leave in the end but unfortunately I am aware of others who suffered the same fate.

I’m headed to legislative branches with my twins story. It’s time that they have a voice. They were abused sexually as children, because they are not competent to stand trial their abusers were released from jail. It seems that the laws are not written to protect children or people with disabilities. The way the law is written enables predator’s..

In an era where mental health discussions are gaining momentum, even within its smaller communities, effecting change requires collaboration. Our collective effort should focus on ensuring that everyone has access to crucial information and knowledge about nurturing their mental well-being and understanding its significance. Through collaboration, we not only extend this essential information but also unlock fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to address mental health challenges. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter and healthier future for all.

Self-care cannot be over emphasized. It is both preventive and restorative. It is also within one's control and not necessarily subject to the environmental conditions one is in. One can practice self-care regardless of their economic status or availability of resources and facilities. It is not about spending on expensive activities. Taking a walk, taking a break from social media or social activities, saying no and setting other healthy boundaries, are all examples of self-care activities that don't incur any cost. Through self-care we take responsibility for our mental health instead of delegating it to the mental professionals, employers, spouses etc.

Sharing what worked when I was a Grad ambassador at Berkeley, guiding racially diverse/first-gen students on how to thrive in high-pressure academic environments, as depression and performance anxiety are common due to acculturation stress. 1. Socially Normalize MH issues- it's ok to be not ok. Give visibility in group talks/sessions for self-awareness of symptoms. 1-1 peer counseling using parroting (repeating keywords) technique. 2. Confidentiality and Community - you are not alone. Providing a safe online forum (Nest) helps anonymously voice feelings, set goals, stay on track & connect with professionals. 3. Accept & Plan- you don't know what you don't know. 45 min session with a therapist. Discipline, time & sleep hygiene habits.

Using institutions to help advocate for mental health. We can have schools, religious institutions and organisations/ workplaces inculcating mental health and wellbeing as part of their culture, and not only helping spread the awareness but also be places where people can access the mental health support they need even if by way of referral to mental health professionals outside of these institutions.