What is Mental Health/Wellness

As a board member on the Los Angeles South Chamber of Commerce-Hope Foundation, we thought it’s about time to open the discussion up about Mental health and wellbeing in our communities.   

Since COVID-19, the Chamber-Hope Foundation was concerned about the Mental health and the wellbeing of our members and community. We knew physical and mental health aspects were challenging our members and community. Not to mention we had to have an in-depth discussion on how to create a dialogue with our members for a solution. So, the Chamber-Hope Foundation decided to step back, examine, and explore its opportunities.We examine the terms of Mental health/wellbeing/and wellness.  In our research, we discover the definition of Mental health/wellness has multiple meanings, for example: 

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: “Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Mental health is essential at every stage of life, from childhood through adulthood.”
• The Mayo Clinic:  “Mental illness, also called mental health disorders, refers to a wide range of mental health conditions — disorders that affect your mood, thinking, and behavior. Examples of mental illness include depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders, and addictive behaviors.”
• The World Health Organization: “Mental health is defined as a state of wellbeing in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.”

After we carefully review the various perspectives, viewpoints, and methodologies, the Chamber-Hope Foundation focused on finding a solution to these challenging questions in our community by formulating teams. 

Our plan of attack is as follow: 

• We focus on our members and community since COIVD-19. By check-in on their emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing.
• Second, as an entrepreneur, how were functioning with various digital platforms and social media (Facebook, Zoom, and Instagram)?
• Third, how were they adapting to change?
• Finally, who was there support?

After we survey our members and community, we discover the need for support groups and services. As the Chamber- Hope Foundation pursued more innovative opportunities. We are committed to the success and wellness of our members and community.  Our slogan is “We are not your average Chamber,” and you better believe it.

The Chamber-Hope Foundation is obligated and commits to our members and community for their optimal success.

By:

Bonita Thomas, Tamani & Associates