“If we can experience it, we can teach it!” This was the guiding principle embraced by our Youth Team during a series of learning sessions on mental health, facilitated by our Columbia University graduate Fellow, Aimary Rubio.

Aimary, a master’s student in clinical psychology, said that the purpose of these sessions was to help our Youth Team explore various facets of what true mental well-being means and equip them with essential understanding so they can care for themselves and support young people.

The initial two sessions focused primarily on the fundamentals of mental health. The third session delved into the vital realm of mental health advocacy. It emphasized how the Youth Team can best apply our rights-based approach specifically when dealing with young people and how Roots of Health as an organization can further reduce stigma and discrimination associated with mental health concerns.

The fourth session was about strengthening the self. Our Youth Team learned a range of activities to enhance resilience-building skills that they can share with our partner youth leaders and students.

The fifth session honed the team’s interpersonal skills, enabling them to recognize warning signs of mental distress, apply principles of psychological first aid, and build psychological safety within groups.

Thank you Aimary for enhancing our skills in effectively supporting young people as they navigate life’s challenges.