19 Oct Raising Awareness, Sharing Lived Experiences, and Promoting Hope: Access to Services and Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies

The St. Benedict Menni Mental Rehabilitation Center successfully commemorated Mental Health Week with a series of impactful activities aimed at raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting community engagement around mental health and substance use.

Guided by the belief that mental health is everyone’s responsibility, the celebration focused on reaching people where they are—within communities, on the airwaves, and in public spaces—while centering the voices of those with lived experience.

Community Awareness in the Ghettos

A key activity during the week targeted mental health awareness in underserved communities and selected ghettos. Outreach teams engaged residents in open discussions about mental health, substance use, early warning signs, and available support services.

By taking awareness directly to the streets, the Centre addressed myths and misconceptions, encouraged help-seeking behaviour, and emphasised that mental illness is not a curse or moral failure, but a treatable health condition.

This approach helped build trust and foster meaningful dialogue within communities often excluded from formal health services.

Radio Talk Shows: Amplifying Lived Experiences

Radio engagement formed a powerful component of the week’s activities. Through interactive radio shows, mental health professionals and individuals with lived experience shared real-life stories of illness, recovery, and resilience.

These conversations humanised mental health conditions, challenged stigma, and offered hope to listeners who may be struggling silently. Call-in segments allowed the public to ask questions, share concerns, and receive accurate mental health information in a safe and accessible format.

By amplifying lived experiences, the Centre reinforced the message that recovery is possible and no one is alone.

Mental Health Awareness Walk

The week culminated in a Mental Health Awareness Walk, bringing together staff, partners, community members, and supporters to publicly advocate for mental health.

The walk served as a visible statement of solidarity with people living with mental health conditions and a call to action for greater compassion, inclusion, and investment in mental health services. Participants carried messages promoting hope, dignity, and understanding, helping to normalise conversations about mental wellbeing.

Impact and Way Forward

Mental Health Week at St. Benedict Menni strengthened community awareness, encouraged dialogue, and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to advocacy, prevention, treatment, and recovery.

The activities highlighted the importance of community-based approaches, the power of storytelling, and collective responsibility in addressing mental health challenges in Liberia.

As the Centre continues its mission, Mental Health Week serves as a reminder that lasting change begins with awareness, empathy, and action.

Together, we can reduce stigma, restore dignity, and build a mentally healthy society.