What Is A Mental Health Advocate?
According to PyschCentral, “An advocate, in general, is someone who supports and speaks up on behalf of a specific cause or group of people. A mental health advocate focuses on mental health topics.”
My “Why” Behind Mental Health Advocacy(MHA)
There are many reasons a person might choose to advocate for mental health. I have been digging into questions about mental health advocacy, what it looks like, and what this means for me. I believe my personal experience with mental health has uniquely equipped me to love and serve those facing mental health challenges. This is one important way I live out the call to love God and love my neighbor found in Matthew 22:37-39 NLT.
“Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Matthew 22:37-39 NLT
Who Will I Serve?
Who I will serve is perhaps one of the most challenging questions. I want to help everyone, but I realize that is not realistic. I need to narrow down my audience to serve their needs. My audience or niche includes individuals, their friends, and family members experiencing challenges surrounding mental health. I serve individuals experiencing challenges with mental health, but I also serve the friends and family supporting those individuals.
How Will I Serve Them?
I believe the details will change over time, but I created the LEAP Framework to make it easier to remember.
The LEAP Framework
- Love(Matthew 22:37-39 NLT) those experiencing challenges surrounding mental health
- Equip and educate
- Advocate for mental well-being
- Provide a safe place
I hope that this will help you understand my motivation and where I am heading in the future.
