A recap of the MHA Lancaster Suicide Prevention Conference — lived experiences, QPR training, and the reminder that even small seeds can save lives.

Key takeaways from the Lives Worth Living book discussion, highlighting youth suicide prevention, embedding support in schools, and centering lived experience.

September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day, a reminder that suicide can be prevented. At My Mind My Funk, we highlight mental health daily and will share insights from key events throughout Suicide Prevention Month.

UNGA Week 2025 is almost here, and the spotlight is turning to mental health and brain health. From high-level UN meetings to side events hosted by UNICEF, WHO, and leading nonprofits, New York will be buzzing with conversations on youth mental health, NCDs, and the future of the brain economy. Here’s a curated guide to the sessions worth attending (or streaming) from Sept 22–26.

“The silence and stigma around mental health has unfortunately been part of the African, and subsequently the Black Community's culture. By putting a global spotlight on mental health, BET is paving the way for these conversations to move from taboo topics that are not talked about in our culture to conversations we can have on the dinner table. By recognizing me and the work I have done so far, BET is affirming me, and those struggling with their mental health, to keep talking about their personal experiences. This recognition is also a testimony for all the female African innovators who have solutions for their communities but are afraid to bring them to light because of the statistics and factors that do not favor female innovators,” says Wafula

Sitawa Wafula at BET Awards 2022 - Los Angeles, California

One of the ways the organization is creating spaces for common challenges to be discussed and for solutions to be shared is through their upcoming conference. Before the pandemic, the conference was to focus on environmental sustainability. Conversation around the common (COVID-19) challenge has been added to the agenda. We will taking part in the conference which will be happening virtually this weekend - 30th and 31st May, 2020.

Play your part

There are a lot of virtual events - conference, concerts, webinars - happening to celebrate this day. The weight of the current pandemic can make us think about the common challenges more than the things we can celebrate. As discussed on the show with the Africa Now officials, it is easy to say no to many things at this time. It is ok to give yourself a break but do not isolate yourself. There is strength is positive community and if you are looking for one, we look forward to meeting you this weekend at the conference.