Overview
Beginning in 2023, Rotary International asked members to make mental health a priority. Rotary has a unique ability to connect people and cultures, giving hope and receiving it through acts of kindness. Now is the time to expand this culture of care — both within Rotary and in the world at large.
Providing care in such a way benefits not only the communities we live in and work with, but also our members as they take part in addressing mental health. Research shows that performing acts of kindness is the most effective way to protect our own sense of well-being and become more resilient.
Rotary can create the kind of world we want to live in: one where we all feel supported as part of a community and where we help expand access to quality care. Members can do this by:
- Erasing the stigma associated with caring about emotional well-being
- Raising awareness about mental health needs
- Working to improve access to mental health services
Everyone in Rotary has a role in this effort. Members can help each other prioritize self-care in the ways that are most meaningful. Clubs can make sure they offer welcoming environments where everyone who interacts with us is treated with care, respect, and dignity. We can talk openly about mental health, let people know they're not alone, and encourage them to get professional help if necessary. And we can work with community and national leaders to create or expand access to quality preventive care and interventions for mental health.
Within the Caribbean community, mental health disorders stand as the 5th major non-communicable disease, affecting numerous lives and posing significant challenges. Rotary District 7030 therefore echoes the World Health Organization's timeless wisdom (circa 1948), and firmly believes that health encompasses complete physical, mental, emotional and social well-being.
District 7030 stands united with Rotary International in emphasizing mental health as a paramount priority for Rotarians. Consequently, District 7030 launched its Mental Health Program in 2023 —a bold initiative coordinated by a committee of mental health champions drawn from across the region, and aimed at creating hope in the world by addressing mental health issues within Caribbean communities.
As a community of practice, the District 7030 Mental Health Program will serve as a conduit for mental health champions, advocating for the needs and challenges within their communities. Aligning with Rotary’s existing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) strategy, the Mental Health Program and Team will work to integrate mental health initiatives into our community fabric.
To address the growing concerns related to mental health, District 7030's Mental Health Program aims to develop guidelines and initiatives that promote mental wellness, support those in need, and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. These guidelines seek to provide a framework for clubs in District 7030 to implement effective mental health programs and initiatives.
District 7030 believes in the immense power of collective action where Rotarians understand the profound impact communities can make when addressing critical issues. All Rotary and Rotaract members are therefore encouraged to actively participate in these initiatives, ensuring that mental health remains a focal point of all clubs and the shared strength of our entire District is leveraged to create a world where mental health is recognized as a fundamental human right.