Lesson 1 Introduction – Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health

video: Course Trailer [2:20]

Mental Health Matters is a grant funded, community-based program that aims to improve individuals’ knowledge about mental health and illness and to strengthen people’s self-efficacy to support those experiencing mental illness. This training provides an opportunity for mutual support and growth and the opportunity to engage in discussion with those in the community also interested in learning more about mental health. You will also be able to hear from and talk with licensed mental health practitioners, many of whom identify as BIPOC or are from marginalized communities.

Mental Health Matters will help you: 

• Connect with others in your community.
• Talk with mental health experts and providers.
• Develop confidence for serving as a mental health navigator in your community 
• Enhance communication skills.
• Learn strategies for caring for yourself and others who may be experiencing mental illness.
• To learn about types of mental health conditions, health care professionals, available treatment options and therapies.
• Support individuals in navigating  to resources and services that best support their health and well-being.

Learning objectives

By the end of this lesson, the learner will be able to: 

1. Apply fundamental knowledge about mental health and mental illness to enhance one’s own mental health as well as the mental health of others in the community. 
2. Develop relationships with local mental health experts and providers.
3. Demonstrate popular education and peer learning techniques to effectively promote mental health in the community. 
4. Build confidence in one’s ability to act as a community mental health navigator.
5. Summarize actions one can take to support their own mental health and care when experiencing signs of mental illness.
6. Learn strategies for caring for yourself.
7. Explain the impact of racism on individuals’ mental health and well-being.
8. Navigate others to important mental health resources and providers.

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