2024-02-29 14:02:00
Central – “Edraak” Association and the National Mental Health Program launched the “Supported Self-Help Plus” (SH+) project with support from the World Health Organization in coordination with the International Rescue Committee, and with funding from the Lebanon Specialized Trust Fund (LFF) managed by the World Bank, in the followingnoon. Today, Thursday, February 29, 2024, at the Citea Apart Hotel – Achrafieh, in the presence of the President and founder of the Edraak Association, Dr. Elie Karam, the Executive Director of the Edraak Association, Dr. George Karam, the Deputy National Director of the International Rescue Committee, Zeina Zouein, the Director of Operations at the National Mental Health Program. Berrin Busbek Aoun, representative of the World Health Organization, with the participation of Dr. Kenneth Carswell, a technical expert from the World Health Organization.
The word “perception”
First, Dr. George Karam gave a speech on behalf of the “Edraak” Association, in which he said: “It gives me great pleasure to stand before you today to celebrate the success achieved through the implementation of Self Help Plus, a pioneering initiative that has found its way to Lebanon for the first time.
Self Help Plus is a stress management training launched by the World Health Organization to deal with adversity. This represents a significant milestone in our commitment to promoting mental health and well-being within our community, in a world that often moves at a relentless pace, and the importance of self-care cannot be overstated.”
He added: “Our daily lives are filled with many challenges, stressors and uncertainties, all of which can negatively impact our mental health. Recognizing the need for effective and accessible self-care strategies, we have adopted the (SH+) programme.”
This intervention is a comprehensive approach to stress management that empowers individuals to take responsibility for their psychological well-being. It helps reduce psychological distress in adults, regardless of whether they suffer from a diagnosable mental health condition or not, and has been shown to prevent the onset of psychological disorders in adults.
(SH+) is not a luxury; “It’s a necessity, so we must acknowledge the importance of taking care of our mental health, just as we do our physical health.”
He pointed out, “Implementing the (SH+) program for the first time in Lebanon is a testimony to our belief that mental health is a universal right, and that everyone deserves a chance to succeed.”
He said: “What distinguishes this intervention is not only its global success, but its ability to adapt to the Lebanese context. By providing it in the Lebanese language, we are breaking down barriers and making these essential tools accessible to a wider audience. We understand the unique cultural differences and challenges that our society faces, and reflects “Adapting the program is our commitment to meet these specific needs.”
He concluded: “By adopting the Self Help Plus programme, we are taking proactive steps towards creating a healthier and more resilient society.
Together, let’s make these resources not only available but accessible to every corner of Lebanon.”
A word from the International Rescue Committee
After that, Mrs. Zuwayn gave a speech to the International Rescue Committee, in which she said: “It gives me great pleasure and a deep sense of pride that we gather today to celebrate the touching journey that we began in October 2023. In close partnership with the National Mental Health Program, and the “Edraak” Association, which implemented Self Help Plus program.
479 individuals have been prepared throughout Lebanon, from the south to the north, the Bekaa, Beirut and Mount Lebanon, with the necessary skills to be able to deal effectively with the increasing pressures in Lebanon.
She continued: “The dedicated assistants, equipped with extensive training and resources, performed effectively to implement the WHO self-help program in addition to psychological stress management. Through face-to-face training and promotion of online training courses, the Edraak Association for specialized mental health services coordinated Close with the National Mental Health Programme, and with support from the International Rescue Committee, by providing individuals with vital skills to manage psychological stress, even under the most difficult circumstances.
She added: “In the face of daily adversity and stress, we seek effective methods to alleviate psychological distress, and preventing psychological disorders is a testament to our collective dedication to supporting mental health in Lebanon, and this endeavor has been made possible thanks to the generous contributions made by donors within the framework of the project.” “Supporting Social Recovery for Vulnerable Groups in Beirut,” financed by the Lebanese Financing Facility (LFF) managed by the World Bank (WB).
She concluded: “Our collective commitment, along with our esteemed partners Edraak Association and the National Mental Health Programme, continues to expand the scope of the supported self-help intervention across the diverse Lebanese regions. Our goal is to continue strengthening the foundation laid by the project, and strive to provide vital support to individuals.” In dealing with stress, preventing the emergence of psychological disorders, and alleviating the symptoms of existing conditions, in addition to contributing to improving general well-being in the face of the enormous challenges we are experiencing today.”
National program speech
Berrine Busbek Aoun then gave a speech on behalf of the “National Mental Health Program,” in which he said: “It gives me great pleasure to stand before you today as we gather to celebrate an important achievement in our journey towards mental health and well-being. Today, we are publishing the Supported Self-Help (SH+) training, which is An endeavor that resonates deeply with our commitment to making mental health accessible to all. This training was developed by the World Health Organization and approved by the National Mental Health Program in Lebanon with our implementing partner “Edraak”. The training consists of 5 sessions for large groups and is a harmonious combination. It’s simple and effective, making it adaptable.
She pointed out that “SH+ reduces psychological distress and acts as a preventive measure once morest the emergence of psychological disorders,” noting that “the SH+ format makes it well-suited for use alongside other mental health interventions, as a first step in an integrated care program, or as a community intervention delivered alongside Along with broader community programmes.”
She said: “SH+ transcends geographical borders and reaches adults suffering from stress, regardless of their circumstances or location. The SH+ project aligns seamlessly with our national mental health strategy in Lebanon.”
She continued: “It is an effective step to achieve our vision of enabling every individual residing in Lebanon to access mental health services.
By spreading SH+, we are expanding our reach, ensuring that stress management skills spread to every corner of our society.”
From Coaching to Podcast: A Transformational Journey
She added: “Our journey does not end here. We are starting a new chapter. SH+ will leap beyond physical spaces as it will be transformed into a podcast – helping to extend a helping hand to those seeking help. This podcast works to bridge the gaps and provide guidance and practical tools to listeners. In conclusion, “Let’s acknowledge the collective effort that got us here today. Our supporters, our partners, and every one of you – your commitment fuels our mission. Let’s remember that mental health is not a luxury, it’s a basic right. Let’s continue to weave a safety net – one that embraces hearts and minds.”
After Dr. Kenneth Carswell delivered a welcome message from the World Health Organization, Bedros Kazazian provided details regarding “Self Help Plus.”
A number of trainees also provided certificates of success stories.
After that, certificates were distributed to the trainers and facilitators.
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