Practicum Participant Benjie Alcasin Reflects on the Importance of Mental Health

My name is Benjie Alcasin, and as a Mental Health Peer Educator, I participated in the 2-day practicum part of the ICF Training of Trainers: Integrating Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) in Peacebuilding.

As a peer educator of mental health I'm so happy to join on this kind of training to gain more knowledge to learn and re-learn specially about the psychosocial first aid, this knowledge I've learned can be of help to many people especially to my fellow youth that need it, in that way I will share my knowledge to them and to others, so they help themselves, learn what to do and how they can help themselves and other people.

Reflection:

Mental health is a fundamental human right; everyone deserves to be treated with respect and has the right to express their feelings, and their reasons are valid. Everyone deserves the highest attainable standard of mental health, including access to quality care, liberty, and inclusion in the community. This right is crucial for overall well-being and the ability to participate in society fully. However, this right is often violated, with individuals with mental health conditions facing discrimination, exclusion, and denial of fundamental rights.

The right to mental health is not just about access to treatment; it also encompasses the right to be free from coercion, discrimination, and other forms of human rights violations. Also, the importance of psychosocial first aid (PFA) helps individuals feel safer, less isolated, and better equipped to manage their emotional responses in the immediate aftermath of a challenging experience. This initial stabilization is critical in preventing the escalation of distress and potential long-term mental health issues.

We note that mental health matters more than anything; we need to know ourselves. You matter, your feelings are valid.