{"id":31859,"date":"2025-10-19T17:47:30","date_gmt":"2025-10-19T16:47:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wearelikeyou.org\/?p=31859"},"modified":"2026-01-19T17:51:36","modified_gmt":"2026-01-19T16:51:36","slug":"raising-awareness-sharing-lived-experiences-and-promoting-hope-access-to-services-and-mental-health-in-catastrophes-and-emergencies","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wearelikeyou.org\/en\/raising-awareness-sharing-lived-experiences-and-promoting-hope-access-to-services-and-mental-health-in-catastrophes-and-emergencies\/","title":{"rendered":"Raising Awareness, Sharing Lived Experiences, and Promoting Hope: Access to Services and Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies"},"content":{"rendered":"

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

Guided by the belief that mental health is everyone\u2019s responsibility<\/strong>, the celebration focused on reaching people where they are\u2014within communities, on the airwaves, and in public spaces\u2014while centering the voices of those with lived experience<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Community Awareness in the Ghettos<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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

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

This approach helped build trust and foster meaningful dialogue<\/strong> within communities often excluded from formal health services.<\/p>\n

Radio Talk Shows: Amplifying Lived Experiences<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Radio engagement formed a powerful component of the week\u2019s activities. Through interactive radio shows<\/strong>, mental health professionals and individuals with lived experience shared real-life stories of illness, recovery, and resilience<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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

By amplifying lived experiences, the Centre reinforced the message that recovery is possible and no one is alone<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Mental Health Awareness Walk<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The week culminated in a Mental Health Awareness Walk<\/strong>, bringing together staff, partners, community members, and supporters to publicly advocate for mental health<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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

Impact and Way Forward<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Mental Health Week at St. Benedict Menni strengthened community awareness, encouraged dialogue<\/strong>, and reaffirmed the Centre\u2019s commitment to advocacy, prevention, treatment, and recovery<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

The activities highlighted the importance of community-based approaches, the power of storytelling, and collective responsibility<\/strong> in addressing mental health challenges in Liberia.<\/p>\n

As the Centre continues its mission, Mental Health Week serves as a reminder that lasting change begins with awareness, empathy, and action<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Together, we can reduce stigma, restore dignity, and build a mentally healthy society<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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