By Askya Alexander,
Special to the AFRO
The Mental Health America Conference hosted a weeklong event in Washington, D.C. from June 6 to June 10.
The organization brought renowned experts, practitioners and advocates from across the country to address the pressing challenges surrounding mental health. This year’s theme happened to bring a particular emphasis on young individuals.
“As a mental health advocate whose work is centered on amplifying the voices of young Latino, queer and first-generation individuals, joining MHA in this conference gives me a profound sense of hope,” said Jose Caballero, Mental Health America Youth Mental Health Leadership Council (YMHLC) member. “ hope that the voices and lived experience of individuals in our communities can affect meaningful change and engender a society that acknowledges, respects and caters to the mental health needs of all its members, regardless of their background. And hope that young people are included in these conversations.”
In the midst of those necessary discussions, members of the YMHLC, took the main stage, granting a particular unique and necessary perspective about young individuals and their experiences navigating the mental health system. The council provided candid and authentic accounts from personal experiences, in turn providing an invaluable glimpse into the pressures that contribute to mental health concerns among youth.
With a wide variety of specially curated events, the conference allowed for both attendees and coordinators alike to have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and learn from experts firsthand in the pursuit of mental health advocacy.
“We had over 800 applicants for a little over 30 panels, so we developed a deep criterion that was intentional about intersectionality with accessibility as a through line. Because of this, we gathered a broad range of speakers of various ages, races, and backgrounds for panels, interactive sessions, and inspiring talks,” said Allen. “From opening with a song from a Tséhootsooí Medical Center fourth-generation Medicine Man, to Carmella Wallace talking about her son Juice WRLD, authors and activists, and media – everyone here has a shared goal of changing and improving the mental health landscape.”
The conference consisted of a diverse range of speakers and presenters who shared their expertise and personal stories. Through thought-provoking keynote addresses and engaging panel discussions, each session provided attendees with the latest research, emerging trends and evidence-based practices in mental health care. In doing so, these discussions transcended the limited bounds within the conference walls and sparked conversations to be continued long after the conference concluded.
“It means a lot to me to be able to attend the conference, not only because of my experience with the youth council, but also because of how many unique perspectives and conversations are being had,” said fellow youth council member and disability advocate, Jill King. “I know for me as a disability advocate as well I have been able to open up those conversations among others at the conference and speak on the intersection of mental health and disability which I feel is not discussed enough. I am hoping that as we all go home tomorrow that our minds remain open and collaboration in our advocacy continues!”
This year’s conference served as a catalyst for change, inspiring attendees to approach mental health challenges among the youth with renewed vigor and innovative thinking. As the world grapples with the growing mental health crisis, this conference’s emphasis on prevention, holistic approaches to health and inclusivity offers hope for a brighter future. By empowering the next generation with knowledge, the MHA, and all who support it are working collectively to build a society that prioritizes mental well-being and ensures that no young person is left behind.
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