Reeves College is committed to equipping students with the skills and knowledge they need to tackle the complex social issues that can impact mental health. That's why our Calgary North campus sent representatives to attend the Punjabi Community Health Services round table on mental health on January 24th, 2023.
This important event brought together professionals from various fields to discuss the prevalence of social issues such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, and drug abuse.
One of the key takeaways from the discussion was the need for greater awareness and understanding of these issues, as well as the reluctance of people to speak out about their problems due to language barriers, family pressure, and the stigma associated with mental health issues.
As an institution that offers addiction and community services, as well as child and youth services worker programs, it was important for Reeves College to participate in this round table. Our programs provide students with the professional knowledge and skills they need to tackle various social issues and address some of the underlying causes of mental health issues in their communities.
It’s events like these that provide an important step towards building a healthier community, as they help promote awareness and understanding of various social issues. By better understanding the challenges people face, organizations like Reeves College can learn how to better help those in need. In addition, events like these provide opportunities for organizations to network, form partnerships, and collaborate more effectively to enhance the impact of their work.
The round table discussion also more specifically focused on mental health awareness in the Punjabi community, which has been largely overlooked in the past. Women in the Punjabi community are particularly vulnerable to violence and abuse, and having resources and support available in their language can make a significant difference. By increasing mental health awareness and breaking down barriers, individuals can seek help and support without fear of being judged or ridiculed, leading to the improved support within the Punjabi community and creating a safer environment for those going through difficult times.
In addition to the topics discussed, the event also highlighted the importance of creating safe spaces where individuals can share their problems. This is crucial, as the stigma associated with mental health issues can prevent people from seeking help, and mainstream institutions can be intimidating, making it difficult for people to approach them.
Reeves College recognizes the importance of providing safe spaces for individuals to seek help and support, and we are committed to promoting mental health awareness and reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues. By attending events like the Punjabi Community Health Services round table, we are able to connect with others who are committed to making a positive difference in their communities and can work together to create more inclusive, compassionate, and just societies.
Incorporating the knowledge and skills gained from events like these into our curriculum is also an important part of our commitment to tackling social issues that impact mental health. By integrating these topics into our programs, we are able to provide students with a better understanding of social issues and teach them how to deal with them effectively. This can help produce a new generation of professionals who are better equipped to deal with the challenges of a changing society, making it more compassionate and inclusive for all.
The Punjabi Community Health Services round table on mental health was an important event for Reeves College, and highlighted the need for greater awareness and understanding of social issues that impact mental health. It allows us to better understand the challenges faced by individuals in our communities and work together with other organizations to create a more inclusive, compassionate, and just society. We remain committed to providing our students with the skills and knowledge they need to tackle these complex issues and make a positive difference