Summary
This module will explore a variety of perspectives and ideas on the decolonization of mental health as well as the roots of climate anxiety. Within this module there will be an exploration of various perspectives on mental health and how we can engage in this discourse in a way that is meaningful and supportive for each individual. Read, listen, watch and reflect by utilising these resources as a starting point in the exploration of this topic.
Checking In
Beginning with a journaling reflection, take a couple of minutes to write about the following journal prompts:
-
-
Write about your experiences with mental health – this can be as vulnerable as you choose, no need to share it with anyone!
-
List 3 self care activities that you find helpful and then list their impact on your mental health.
-
Repeat this activity with community-care activities, creating a list of 3 tangible community care activities that you could participate in and their impact.
-
Examples include: donating to a community fridge, reaching out to a friend/neighbour and checking in to see if they need any support, attending a community event or volunteering your time.
-
Important Perspectives in Mental Health Dialogue
The following resources offer a variety of perspectives on mental health. Read, watch and listen through these resources to start to diversify your understanding on this topic.
-
-
Decolonizing mental health: The importance of an oppression-focused mental health system (read 15 min)
-
As a Desi woman, demanding justice and cultivating joy are in my roots (read 15 min)
-
Decolonizing Substance Use & Addiction | Len Pierre | TEDxSFU (watch17 min)
-
Trauma & Decolonizing Mental Health with Angelica | Destigmatized Podcast (listen 40 min)
-
The next two resources discuss the interactions of whiteness and climate anxiety. Before reading, take the next couple of moments to reflect on what ways (if any) you have felt or experienced climate anxiety and how that has impacted your life. All experiences are valid!
After reading these articles has your perspective on your own experience with climate anxiety shifted? If so, how and why do you think that is?
Digging Deeper: Additional Resources for Learning More!
The following three resources focus on the decolonization of mental health. Read and listen to these perspectives, allowing for a deeper understanding of this topic.
Reflection
Take some time to journal and reflect on the following questions:
-
-
What is one tangible action you commit to doing following the ALC to help: (1) your own mental health, (2) someone else’s (3) on the community level (what community & why, and how?)
-
What are you grateful for in your life?
-
Which of these are considered privileges?
-
How can you offer some of the care and security that these privileges provide to others?
-
Take 5 minutes to go and grab your favourite book, activity, or item. It can be an item that grounds you, makes you feel better, or that calms you in general. Note in your journal on the following questions:
-
Why did you pick this item?
-
How does it make you feel?
-
Why does it make you feel that way?
-
If you feel called to do so share this with someone close to you, maybe a friend or family member!
-
