'All countries are developing countries when it comes to mental health'

Generation Mental Health Team • Mar 06, 2020

In continuation of our 'Perspectives on global mental health campaign, we are excited to hear from Gergana Manolova, a global mental health researcher and Founder of Globally Minded! 


She shares with us her perspectives on the field today, and her visions for the future of global mental health. For those interested in joining the field, make sure to check out Gergana's great advice! 

What inspired you to work in the mental health field?

It was the urge to understand and help people that drove me to become a psychologist. Mental suffering is, paradoxically, something that everyone experiences, but at the same time people consider it mystifying and feel very little qualified to do anything about it - in themselves or in others. I wanted to know more about the mystery that lies within us, and learn how to do something about it in these cases when it brought people anguish and sadness.




What inspired you to work in the mental health field?

The field of global mental health represents the same to me as above, but on a larger scale - the scale of the whole world. In the past few years we have seen that people everywhere recognize the call for action on mental health, in all the countries and territories, despite the field of global mental health being more delineated in high-income countries. Therefore we should not consider global mental health as something to do to/with 'developing' countries. It has been rightly remarked that all countries are developing countries when it comes to mental health. We all stand to learn a lot better how to manage the vast needs out there. Usually, people would say there are gaps of treatment, prevention and promotion. I would say there are also needs for connection, empathy, understanding, mutuality, helping - the purely human mixed in with the scientific.


The field is still young and seething with opportunities, voices, messages and possibilities. There is place for everyone.



What advice would you give a young person interested in entering the global mental health field?

Think, participate, read about mental health and the interdisciplinary debate - in that order. Wherever you are, there are opportunities. I hope our field will soon develop in a direction where it won't matter where in the world you are, because you can connect to global mental health people everywhere. Find a way to contribute - this is how I started my website globallyminded.org and my list of global mental health events. Keep your passion and your conviction that things can be changed for the better.

Are you interested in writing for the GenMH Blog?

Reach out to Liz at liz@generationmentalhealth.org. We have some exciting plans and would love input from diverse people from across the world!

Session Attendees at the Egerton University Event

Fellowship Diaries: GULI Club at Egerton University, Kenya

By Lydia Bennett-Li • 03 Dec, 2023
On 11th November, GenMH University Mental Health Fellow, Gakii Mwithali, organised a hugely successful mental health training session attended by over 350 students of Egerton University in Kenya. The event was hosted by GULI Club and sponsored by GenMH, and focussed on the following topics: Mental Health Literacy; Sexual harassment and its implication on mental health among the youth; Contraception among the youth and its implications and; Effects of FGM on mental health among the youth.
People sitting in a park

Low cost ways to prioritise your mental health

By Lydia Bennett-Li • 01 Apr, 2023
The current economic climate has had a significant impact on mental health. Lasting impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, along with increasing global instability have exacerbated existing mental health inequalities, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. It's essential to prioritize mental health during these difficult times by seeking support, practicing self-care, and staying connected with others. However, looking after your mental health doesn't have to be expensive. Here are some low-cost or free ways to prioritize your mental well-being: Spend time in nature: From a short walk in your local park, to a weekend camping trip, taking a break from technology to spend some time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and promote feelings of wellbeing. Find new ways to be active: Exercise has numerous benefits for mental health, including reducing stress and anxiety. It can also be a great way to meet new people. You don't need an expensive gym membership; a simple walk, jog, or yoga session can make a significant difference. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help reduce stress and promote emotional refection. There are numerous free resources online, including guided meditation apps or videos on YouTube. Connect with others: Social connections are essential for mental health. It can be difficult to find time for friends and family in an increasingly online world. However, making time to go for a picnic with friends or joining a local social group can make a significant positive impact on your mental health. Prioritise sleep: Lack of sleep can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression. Prioritize getting enough sleep each night by establishing a consistent sleep routine and limiting screen time before bed. Volunteer: Volunteering is a great way to meet like-minded people, give you an feeling of purpose and meaning, and also increase your self confidence. Consider volunteering with an organisation in your local community or even starting your own organisation/initiative! Looking after your mental health doesn't have to be expensive. By prioritizing self-care and making small changes to your daily routine, you can improve your mental well-being without breaking the bank.
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