The Balm In Gilead, Inc.’s Post

It's still July and that means it is still #minoritymentalhealthawareness month. I want to personally highlight an institution that has been a bedrock for many people of color, and can be used to address #mentalhealth: the church. The church is a place where individuals find refuge, value, and community as they seek for God and grow closer in their relationship with Christ. The church's natural environment can lend itself to therapeutic conditions to help address #mentalhealthconcerns and support people on their journey of healing. Here are some recommendations of practical things #churchcounselingministries or churches who desire to support the #mentalhealthneeds in their congregations can begin to do to amplify a #mentalhealthstrategy for your ministry: -Identify individuals in your ministry who have counseling or mental health backgrounds and credentials to utilize as consultants and for mental health resources. The bible tells us (1 Corinthians 12:18) that "God sets in the body as it pleases him". He has placed members in your local church body who can resource you with skills to help your ministry in the area of mental health. -Recognize prominent #mentalhealthdates church wide and bring important topics to your congregants' awareness. Recognize mental health awareness month. Recognize minority mental health awareness month. Recognize #suicideawareness day. Take time during your church announcements or church newsletter to spread awareness about these dates and educate your members. Doing so helps to decrease stigma and opens the door for conversation. -Seek out training opportunities for your leaders and key leaders of ministries within your church such as the youth ministry. Equipping leaders with trainings that address risk factors and warning signs can empower your ministry to support and effectively "meet people where they are". #SpiritCounseling #Tipsforministry #mentalhealthandchurch #mentalhealthandtheblackchurch #mentalhealthandministry

Tri-County Health Network is shining a light on Mental Health Awareness in our communities during the month of May. We recognize and support Mental Health Awareness Month during the month of May, and aim to raise awareness, provide resources, and foster understanding surrounding mental health issues. This month, we are encouraging local businesses, organizations and governments to illuminate their buildings with green lights throughout the month of May. In addition to lighting buildings with green lights, we encourage individuals and our communities to join us in showing support for mental health by participating in our “Be Seen in Green” challenge on Thursday, May 16, 2024. By lighting up buildings with green, businesses and organizations become visible allies in the fight to destigmatize mental health and promote understanding. And by wearing green, you’re not just wearing a color; you’re standing up for mental health, making a difference, and fostering a brighter tomorrow. For more information about Mental Health Awareness Month and for a list of events revolving around mental health in our region, please visit bit.ly/2024mham Mental Health America #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawarenessmonth

This Mental Health Awareness Month, learn from community leaders and community-engaged researchers about the importance of caring for community partners and team members in community-engaged research beyond the provision of resources and equitable compensation. CEACR brought leaders from Critica, Inc and California State University, Los Angeles to discuss how to strengthen research reciprocity and how they practice and promote self-care in their work. How do you practice or promote self-care in your work? Let us know in the comments! ⤵️

As we step into May, a month dedicated to raising awareness about mental health, we're reminded of a decision we made back in 2020—a year that tested us all. To stand in solidarity with those battling mental health challenges and to advocate for openness and support, we chose to do something a little different. We wrapped one of our vehicles in green ribbons, the international symbol for mental health awareness. It was our way of driving home the message that no one should ever feel alone in their struggles and that it's okay to seek help. Our commitment to mental health doesn't stop at symbolic gestures. We're incredibly proud to support the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in our community, an organization that works tirelessly to provide support, education, and advocacy for those affected by mental health conditions. By partnering with NAMI, we aim to be a part of the much-needed change, helping to remove the stigma attached to mental health and encouraging open conversations. This Mental Health Awareness Month, let's remember to check in on one another, to listen without judgment, and to offer our support. Together, we can make a difference. Our company stands as an advocate for mental health, not just in May, but every day. Let's continue to break the silence around mental health and spread hope and understanding wherever we go. #MentalHealthAwareness #SupportNAMI #EndTheStigma

In the 23 years since September 11, no single event in U.S. history has been studied more in terms of its mental health impact. In fact, the lessons in trauma and recovery still resonate today. The devastation of that day left the deepest wounds on those in the tri-state area. Psychologists have observed significant differences between the emotional responses of those in the tri-state area and those who lost loved ones or witnessed the terror firsthand versus those in the rest of the country, who watched the events unfold from afar. For those who were there, the trauma was immediate and overwhelming. Meanwhile, many across the nation felt the collective shock, but were able to resume their daily lives much more quickly. Amid the chaos and devastation, something powerful happened: people in New York City formed bonds in unexpected ways. Those who had previously been strangers came together, discovering a sense of community and connection that is often hard to find in an urban environment. These connections became a source of resilience, helping many cope with the magnitude of what had happened. It reminds us that even in the most isolating settings, human connection, shared experiences and the power of community can foster strength and healing. September 11 teaches us a great deal about trauma healing: it’s not just about the passage of time but also about the human connection, community, shared experiences, and the spaces we create to feel safe and supported. As we remember those lost on 9/11, we also honor the resilience of those who continue to heal. #September11 #healingtrauma #resilience #community #trauma #PTSD

THE REAL Mental Health Foundation: Walking Together Beyond Political Divides 🌎❤️ Every week, I walk with my friend Bob Schwartz a proud Trump supporter—who is happily holding onto his one-dollar bill from winning our bet (yes, I lost!). Bob and I couldn’t disagree more on most topics, especially politics, but despite those differences, we walk together in unity. If you’re a fan of Trading Places, you’ll appreciate that Bob and I even made the traditional one-dollar bet! As part of THE REAL Walks, we wear our REAL hats around the park, and people often stop to ask, “What’s this all about?” It’s the perfect opportunity to share the mission of THE REAL Mental Health Foundation—bringing people together, breaking down barriers, and building community in a world that sometimes feels divided. For the past 18 months, THE REAL Mental Health Foundation has been bringing people together for weekly walks across the country. With election season and political divides all around us, these walks are a reminder that, at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter who we support or what our views are. What matters is connecting with each other. Sometimes we talk about mental health, sometimes about nothing at all. What we’re really doing is building community, and that’s the medicine we all need. Join the REAL movement—start a walk in your town! It’s not that hard, and walks are already springing up in cities across the country and the globe. Community is the medicine we all need, and sometimes, just showing up for each other is all it takes to make a difference. Giuseppe Brizi George Harrington Heather Kelly Justine Mana (N.) Rachel (Duncan) Ochinegro Nicolas L. Kiep Jen Libby, MSW, LCSW #TheREAL #CommunityMatters #MentalHealthFoundation #REALWalks #Unity #BeyondPolitics #AmericansTogether

“Falling for potential is unhealthy. It can make you blind to very apparent red flags, and it can be unhealthy to love this way because you aren’t living in a realistic relationship. You are looking at your relationship as something you’d like it to be, rather than something it actually is. It is a necessity in any relationship to be able to decipher between what is real and what is projected. You have to be able to discern reality from what you would like reality to be.” -Thought Catalog 🌱 The reality is that the world can be a challenging and uncompassionate place for Black men and boys, but the trauma counselors available through Therapy For Black Men offer a safe haven. To find out more about the therapists we partner with, please visit our provider database. 🌱 Click the link in our bio at Therapy For Black Men to learn more about our mission to break down the barriers that prevent our Men & Boys from accessing mental health resources by offering free therapy sessions with qualified professionals listed in our directory. #healingjourney #blackmengototherapy #protectourboys #therapy #mentalhealth #therapyworks #therapyjourney #mentalhealthmatters #relationships 🌱 Join our community of hearts for men and boys by following Therapy For Black Men. 🌱 Black Men, take time to heal. When a man embarks on a path to healing, the effects ripple outwards. If you need one-to-one support, don't hesitate to send us a direct message or email.

🌟 Embrace Strength, Empower Change: Celebrating Minority Mental Health Month🌟 Before July ends, I thought it would be a perfect time to shine a spotlight on an essential yet often overlooked aspect of our community's well-being: mental health in minority populations. This Minority Mental Health Month, let’s come together to break barriers, share stories, and advocate for equitable mental health support for all. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, but for many in minority communities, these challenges are compounded by systemic inequalities, cultural stigma, and limited access to resources. This month let's take a stand to change that narrative.   How You Can Make a Difference: ◻ Educate Yourself: Learn about the specific mental health challenges faced by different minority groups and the cultural factors involved. ◻ Support Organizations: Contribute to or volunteer with organizations that provide mental health support and advocacy for minority communities. ◻ Share Stories: Use your platform to amplify voices and stories from individuals who are navigating mental health challenges in minority communities. ◻ Engage in Conversations: Start and participate in conversations about mental health that acknowledge and respect diverse experiences and perspectives. Let’s commit to a future where everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the support they need. Together, we can create a world where mental health is treated with the dignity, respect, and attention it deserves. Your voice matters. Your support matters. Let’s make a difference, one conversation at a time. #MinorityMentalHealthMonth #BreakTheStigma #EmpowerChange #MentalHealthMatters

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Jewish American Heritage Month, and Mental Health Awareness Month! 🌏 ▶ AAPI Heritage Month began as a week-long celebration in 1978. This observance honors the rich contributions and culture of Asians and Pacific Islanders across the U.S., celebrating their diverse heritage, culture, and contributions. ▶ Jewish American Heritage Month was established in April 2006. This month recognizes the profound impact Jewish individuals have had on American culture and history, highlighting their diverse contributions in areas such as politics, business, and the arts. ▶ Mental Health Awareness Month was initiated in 1949 by Mental Health America. It aims to encourage open discussions about mental illness, its impact on individuals and communities, and emphasize the importance of access to mental health care. These observances allow us to learn, reflect, and engage in thoughtful discussions. How will you be participating? #AsianPacificHeritage #CelebrateAAPI #JewishHeritageMonth #MentalHealthAwareness #EndTheStigma

#Art is a sanctuary: unlock the healing power of art and how it’s good for our #mentalhealth! Studies show engaging in creative activities can reduce stress by up to 75%, making art a powerful ally for mental well-being. An NCBI article examines the potential of art #therapy in managing mental health issues, especially among populations facing social challenges and health disparities. It emphasizes art therapy's effectiveness in providing emotional relief, improving mental well-being, and fostering personal growth through creative expression. The study underscores the need for integrating art therapy into broader public health strategies to address mental health care gaps, particularly in underserved communities. https://shorturl.at/lnoHJ Let's dive into the world of colors and expressions, where every brushstroke improves our mood and mental health. Like and share this post to embrace the therapeutic journey of art! Obama Foundation Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation United Nations