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May is Mental Health Month in American Samoa
Governor Togiola Tulafono has proclaimed the month of May 2008 as Mental Health Month in American Samoa. The National Mental Health Association, along with the National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare and their local partners observe Mental Health Month each May to raise awareness and understanding of mental illnesses.
The national theme of this year’s campaign is: “Get Connected,” and the campaign ribbon color is silver.
“I encourage all residents to join me in increasing awareness and understanding of mental health and treatment options available in our community for adults and children with mental health illnesses,” Togiola said.
In his proclamation, the Governor wrote, “Healthy individuals and healthy communities are essential elements of any strong and vibrant society, and mental disorders and mental health problems affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and at all stages of life.”
Togiola reminds everyone that mental health problems are real and common, but it is important to remember that recovery is possible with treatment, as individuals with mental health problems can lead full and productive lives.
The Governor said that caring for the mind and the body are good for overall health and are keys to success at home, at work, and at school. “Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health problems greatly increase the likelihood of restored health,” he said.
Mental Health Awareness Month is an annual observance that was established more than 50 years ago to raise awareness of mental health and to promote mental wellness.
In American Samoa, the Department of Human and Social Services’ Mental Health Prevention units, along with local affiliates Governor Togiola Tulafono, Malama TV, KSBS FM, Samoa News, the MOM Support Group, the Mental Health Advisory Council, the LBJ Mental Health Clinic, the Department of Public Safety, and the Office for the Protection and Advocacy of the Disabled have planned community activities to educate the public and promote healthy mental health practices in the territory throughout May.
During the month, the Pua Center in Nu’uuli, with the help of some local churches, will be soliciting donations from the community. Requested items include new or used clothing, and personal sized toiletries like soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, lotion, combs, and hairbrushes.
The donations will be handed out to the local homeless and those ‘at risk’ of becoming a part of the homeless population. Those considered to be ‘at risk’ include people in an unstable living environment due to family conflicts, unstable income, unemployment, lack of social/family support, and those who are suffering from a serious mental illness.
The Pua Center’s Prevention Unit is available all month long to conduct presentations on various mental health topics. Those interested in scheduling a presentation for their class, worksite, church, or social group may call Vaina Felaugaina at 699-5144 for more information.
The Pua Center encourages families to recognize and promote their children’s mental health and overall development through increased communication, guidance, and emotional support, as research shows that children who feel warmth and care from their parents are more likely to be successful in school, be less anxious and depressed, and have higher self-esteem than those without.
A healthy mind is as important as a healthy body. Good mental health can help a person become effective in handling life’s challenges, enhance their relationships, balance their mind, body, and spirit, and stay better connected to their families, friends, and community.
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