The 2024 Mental Health America Conference came to an inspiring close on its third day, with engaging programming that delved into innovative approaches to substance use disorder, research guided by personal experiences, student-led initiatives to enhance mental health on college campuses, and the significance of spirituality in overall well-being. The day began with a keynote address by Dr. Nzinga Harrison, the Co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of Eleanor Health.
Dr. Harrison, a renowned psychiatrist, addiction medicine specialist, author, speaker, and advocate, advocated for a “culturopolitical” approach to mental health in addition to the conventional biopsychosocial model. She highlighted the importance of racism-informed care, stressing the impact of race-based trauma on an individual’s mental health journey.
Moreover, Dr. Harrison emphasized the necessity of initiating uncomfortable conversations in the healing process. She urged compassion towards individuals seeking recovery from addiction as well as those seeking recovery from racism, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in all aspects of mental health care.
The morning session was followed by three breakout sessions, exploring cutting-edge strategies in youth mental health, substance use disorder treatment, and mental health research. One of the discussions, titled “Lift the Mask Club: A Student-Led Approach to Normalizing and Enhancing Mental Health on College Campuses,” showcased the initiative created by college students to provide support and resources for their peers in navigating mental health challenges during their academic journey.
A session titled “Breaking Barriers: Treating Dual Diagnosis with Ketamine and Novel Treatment Approaches” outlined the potential of ketamine in addressing psychiatric symptoms and underlying substance use issues simultaneously. Dr. Abid Nazeer highlighted the importance of addressing dual diagnosis comprehensively for optimal treatment outcomes.
The MHA research team conducted a session on “Your Voice Matters: Integrating Lived Experience in MHA Research,” exploring the integration of personal experiences in research and development of innovative tools for mental health, such as the digital peer bridger tool for substance use.
The final keynote of the day featured Dr. Lisa Miller, a renowned author and professor at Teachers College, Columbia University, known for her work on the protective effects of spirituality on mental well-being. Dr. Miller’s research highlighted the connection between depression and spiritual life, emphasizing the transformative power of spirituality in overcoming despair and fostering personal growth.
In closing the conference, MHA President and CEO Schroeder Stribling expressed appreciation for the speakers, board members, and attendees who made the event a success. She reiterated MHA’s commitment to promoting holistic health, healing, and flourishing for all individuals, envisioning a future where mental health care is equitable and accessible to everyone.
The 2024 Mental Health America Conference not only showcased innovative approaches to mental health care but also emphasized the importance of compassion, understanding, and personal empowerment in the journey towards mental well-being. It was a truly enlightening and transformative experience for all participants, leaving a lasting impact on the future of mental health advocacy and support.
