Mental health is an integral component of our overall well-being, influencing our thoughts, emotions, actions, physical health, relationships, work, and life satisfaction. Unfortunately, a substantial portion of the global population grapples with mental health conditions that significantly impact their quality of life and overall well-being. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in eight individuals worldwide struggle with mental health challenges.
Imagine a world where one in eight people you know silently wrestles with their mental health. Now, imagine the impact of reaching out to them with compassion and understanding.
1. Mental Health Screening and Vital Sign Assessment: Participants underwent mental health assessments, accompanied by checks of vital signs such as blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and malaria tests.
2. Informative Sessions: There were informative sessions that addressed a range of mental health issues, the common stressors inherent to their profession, and the vital importance of seeking help when necessary.
3. Resource Dissemination: The program aimed to inform attendees about the available mental health resources within the university and the local community. This included counseling services, support groups, and crisis hotlines.
Event Description
To commemorate World Mental Health Day 2023, the mental health unit of the University of Cape Coast hospital, in partnership with the Directorate of University Health Services, organized a community mental health outreach program specifically tailored for the university's security and fire service personnel. The primary objective of this initiative was to provide essential support for the mental health and well-being of these employees, who face unique stressors and challenges within their roles.Program Activities
The program featured a comprehensive array of activities, including:1. Mental Health Screening and Vital Sign Assessment: Participants underwent mental health assessments, accompanied by checks of vital signs such as blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and malaria tests.
2. Informative Sessions: There were informative sessions that addressed a range of mental health issues, the common stressors inherent to their profession, and the vital importance of seeking help when necessary.
3. Resource Dissemination: The program aimed to inform attendees about the available mental health resources within the university and the local community. This included counseling services, support groups, and crisis hotlines.
The Extension
In response to the needs of the staff, the program was extended to the next day, October 11, 2023. This extension accommodated those employees who were unable to participate on the first day.
Benefits of the Program
The program was tailored to benefit the staff by enabling them to:- Effectively manage stress and boost their productivity: Through stress-reduction techniques and coping strategies.
- Enhance their overall well-being and happiness: By providing tools for maintaining mental well-being.
- Prevent or seek treatment for mental health conditions: Through early detection and education.
- Access support and care when needed: By promoting the availability of resources and destigmatizing seeking help.
Why Mental Health is a Universal Human Right
The theme for World Mental Health Day 2023, "Mental Health is a Universal Human Right," accentuates the significance of ensuring that everyone, regardless of their profession, is entitled to mental well-being. The University of Cape Coast Hospital outreach program serves as a tangible example of this commitment by extending essential mental health services to the Security and Fire Service personnel, who often bear the weight of their responsibilities in silence.One of the security officers who found solace and support in the program, highlighed that mental health knows no boundaries.
This theme underscores the urgent need to enhance awareness, knowledge, and action that promotes and safeguards mental well-being as a universal right. This encompasses the right to:
- Protection from mental health risks
- Access to available, accessible, acceptable, and high-quality care
- Liberty, independence, and inclusion within the community
A person's mental health condition should never be a reason to deprive them of their human rights or exclude them from decisions about their health. Unfortunately, individuals with mental health conditions continue to face various human rights violations, including exclusion from community life, discrimination, inadequate access to mental health care, and in some cases, involuntary treatments.
1 Comments
This is great piece. And kudus to UCC DUHS, Mental Heath Unit in Charge, staff, and interns for such a needful initiative. Mental health should not be taken for granted.
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