The 2023 GenMH Conference: A reflection from the Chair

Francesca De Geronimo • Feb 01, 2023
"looking back to what the team and I achieved, I could not be more proud of what we accomplished"
Conference participants sit around round tables for the Journalling workshop.

Generation Mental Health’s third annual conference: Youth Advocating for the Future of Mental Health. While it was certainly a lot of work, looking back to what the team and I achieved, I could not be more proud of what we accomplished. 


The biggest challenge we faced was deciding how to host this year's conference. We had an idea of what a virtual, global conference looked like, but we didn’t know how to create a similar valuable conference at the University of Michigan. Through hard work and motivation, we did it! We delivered a two day event, the first day being a virtual event facilitated through Zoom conferencing, and the second being our very first in-person event on campus at the University of Michigan.



Conference participants write on a whiteboard


Having experienced both the virtual and in-person conferences, I have found that both were really effective in strengthening a sense of community among youth mental health advocates. In every Zoom meeting – whether for a keynote, panel, or workshop – the speakers were engaged. Moreover, the audience asked questions and expressed genuine interest at every event. In particular, during the Climate Change and Mental Health Panel, we all participated in a discussion about how we have experienced climate change in our individual settings, and the impact that has had on our own mental health. Although as a group we spanned multiple geographic settings worldwide, we felt like a community as we spoke about our personal experiences and were able to be vulnerable with one another.


Similarly, during the in-person event, there was a strong sense of community as everyone who attended listened actively to each of our speakers and participated in powerful discussions. I especially enjoyed our conversation with Bear as he discussed his lived experience with incarceration and how that impacted his mental health. Though his speech would have been just as powerful on Zoom, the knowledge and sentiment that everyone is sharing space in the same room made this conversation all the more powerful. 



Conference participants sit to listen to a panel


Overall, being Generation’s Mental Health chair for the third annual conference, “Youth Advocating for the Future of Mental Health,” has been extremely rewarding. We were faced with many bumps in the road leading to the conference, but through teamwork, motivation, and passion for mental health, we were able to create a virtual and in-person community that is dedicated to mental health awareness and change.

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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