While we can find out quite a bit about the resources in our community through some straightforward internet research, the people in our communities are much fuller, dynamic sources of knowledge. So how do we go about developing a more comprehensive picture of the mental health resources in our communities? This blog entry outlines several ideas for how to get started. Some of these ideas come directly from the August, 2023 Mental Health Learning Network Session and an interview with George Wood of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Livingston, Texas. You can view the recording of the session here (starts at 16:27).
Relationships Are Central, Relationships Are Complex
Establishing trust within our communities can pose challenges for several reasons. The process of getting to know individuals and building trust takes time – and demonstrating respect for people’s time and priorities requires us to be somewhat organized ourselves. For instance, it’s crucial to be clear about our own objectives in developing these connections; how we can contribute to the goals of other groups can be a bit tricky as we’re starting out. We’re not sure what we might have that others could need! But in the beginning, making some effort to identify some of the concrete resources – e.g. volunteers, physical space – you might have to offer can be incredibly useful as you begin conversations with others.
It can also be important to recognize that many mental health advocates, whether on a local, regional, or even national scale, have shared longstanding connections. These relationships have evolved alongside their changing roles over the years. They may, at times, find themselves in competition for resources, yet at other times, they collaborate closely. Many people involved in community mental health advocacy and education have a personal connection to the topic and bring a level of passion to their work. We can’t usually make too many assumptions about harmony or discord, but can approach these connections with an awareness that their histories are often intricate and enduring, and there are usually no shortcuts when it comes to truly getting to know people.
Ideas for Getting Started
Attend Community Meetings Focused on Mental Health
One option is to identify a few groups that meet regularly and seem open to having new members, such as a local suicide prevention coalition. You’ll learn a lot about local issues and might even pick up some of the lingo or acronyms. These meetings can also be a great place to identify individuals you’d like to talk with in more depth (see next paragraph).
Ask a Community Mental Health Advocates and Leaders for a Brief Informational Interview (or even coffee!)
This approach would probably work best if you have a connection to the person you’d like to talk to, since people running key agencies can have tight schedules. But they (or someone on their staff) can provide valuable guidance.
Invite Different Groups to Speak to Your Congregation
For many organizations, it is central to their mission to provide education to groups in their communities. Get to know them in the process and preparation for an educational session with your congregation and go from there.
Host a Mental Health First Aid Training in Your Community
Workshops like Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) can offer a lot to attendees and hosting organizations. MHFA trainers – especially those that are based locally – are usually knowledgeable and experienced with mental health services and supports in our local communities. They are often in a position to offer suggestions about who to talk to and how to begin developing relationships in the community. By hosting a MHFA training, you’ll learn about local resources, too. And finally, if you make the invitation to attend the training you’re hosting widely available in your community and reach out to local organizations to invite them to join the training, you may begin to build connections.
End With, “Who Should We Talk to Next?”
At the end of any meeting, conversation, or training, simply ask “who should we talk to next?” This powerful, simple practice ensures that you continue to build your network and relationships across the community.
More Ideas and Information
In September, 2023 the Mental Health Learning Network focused on some of the practical aspects of bringing these ideas into action. To watch the recording and do some of your own thinking, click here.
