In many parts of the world, accessible and affordable mental healthcare is hard to find. When combined with cultural barriers and strong negative perceptions of mental illness found in places such as Beirut, Lebanon, too many individuals end up struggling in silence. However, a newly formed group in Lebanon, WA3I ("awareness" in Arabic), is working hard to try and break through these societal barriers. In addition to increasing the population's understanding of mental health and encouraging acceptance of therapy and medications, the group has also been focusing their attention on the young generations, hoping to break down the stigma surrounding mental illness. Recently, WA3I held a storytelling event where university students and graduates shared their own personal accounts of enduring and overcoming mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, OCD, and trichotillomania.
"Something extraordinary happened Tuesday in Beirut. For the first time ever in Lebanon -- and possibly the Middle East -- several young people living with mental illness came forward before an audience of hundreds to tell their stories and raise awareness about mental illness. In a culture where mental illness is treated with silence and shame, these young trailblazers bravely shared their struggles and healing journeys to open minds and save lives. It was nothing short of revolutionary."
For more information about this story, check out "Unmasking Mental Illness in Beirut" by Emily O'Dell (Huffington Post).
"Something extraordinary happened Tuesday in Beirut. For the first time ever in Lebanon -- and possibly the Middle East -- several young people living with mental illness came forward before an audience of hundreds to tell their stories and raise awareness about mental illness. In a culture where mental illness is treated with silence and shame, these young trailblazers bravely shared their struggles and healing journeys to open minds and save lives. It was nothing short of revolutionary."
For more information about this story, check out "Unmasking Mental Illness in Beirut" by Emily O'Dell (Huffington Post).
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