2023 WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY
October 10, 2023
Written By Dr. Nadia Thalji
Reshaping Mental Wellness: A Pollinator's Perspective on 2023 World Mental Health Day
The 2023 World Mental Health Day seminar, led by Dr. Nadia Thalji, Ph.D., explored the impact of culturally sensitive language and community support through the Friend Bench program.
Mental Wellness and the Friendship Bench Program
On October 10, 2023, I had the privilege of hosting the seminar, "Reshaping Mental Wellness: A Pollinator's Perspective on 2023 World Mental Health Day." As the founder of Intercultural Psychology, I emphasized the importance of highlighting the psychosocial and cultural dimensions of the inspiring Friend Bench program. This article shares the key takeaways from the seminar, delving into the remarkable work of the Friendship Bench program and its profound influence on mental wellness, not only in Zimbabwe but also as a global model for reshaping the mental health landscape.
The Power of Cultural Sensitivity
One of the core principles of the Friendship Bench program is its adept use of culturally appropriate language. By incorporating terms like "kufungisisa," "kusimudzirana," and "kusimbisa," the program reduces the stigma associated with mental health discussions. This shift from clinical jargon to language that resonates within the community is key to making mental health more relatable and approachable.
Community Support and Lay Health Workers
The seminar highlighted the essential role played by trained lay health workers within the program. These individuals have been instrumental in providing problem-solving therapy and emotional support to those in need. To further enhance cultural sensitivity, this seminar offered insights into the importance of this program, which contributed significantly in reducing suicidal ideation and fostering a broader sense of community support.
Adaptation to a Changing World
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic posed substantial challenges to mental health services. Under Dr. Dixon Chibanda's guidance, the Friendship Bench program rose to the occasion by transitioning to virtual sessions through platforms like WhatsApp and voice calls. This adaptation enabled individuals to access vital mental health support while adhering to safety guidelines.
A Global Perspective
What makes the Friendship Bench program even more exceptional is its potential for global impact. Dr. Dixon Chibanda and his Friendship Bench project, empowering elderly community therapists to provide essential mental health support, have contributed to the program's success, especially in adapting it to different cultural contexts. By sharing its story and the adaptable components that have made it successful, this initiative serves as an inspiration for similar efforts worldwide, especially in underserved communities.
Sustainability and Ongoing Challenges
While the Friendship Bench program has achieved remarkable success, it also faces sustainability challenges.
A Call to Action
The seminar's ultimate message is one of hope and action. Dr. Nadia Thalji's unique background brings a cross-cultural perspective that reminds us that we all have a role to play in destigmatizing mental health and improving accessibility. Whether we're mental health professionals, advocates, or individuals who care about the well-being of others, we can make a difference.
As we reflect on the invaluable insights and discussions from our seminar, we encourage you to continue your journey toward reshaping mental wellness. Together, we can create a world where mental wellness is a shared priority, and no one feels alone on their path to better mental health.