Mental wellbeing as a state: ‘in which the individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community’.
The World Health Organisation European Declaration on Mental Health (WHO 2005) underlines the centrality of mental health to life: ‘There is no health without mental health. Mental health is central to the human, social and economic capital of nations and should therefore be considered as an integral and essential part of other public policy areas such as human rights, social care, education and employment.’
The aim of the CISE mental health and wellbeing promotion strategy is to improve the mental wellbeing of all the people of Mchinji by;
- Creating flourishing and connected communities through the promotion of wellbeing and resilience and the reduction of inequalities.
- improving the quality and accessibility of services for people with poor mental health
CISE defines mental health promotion as a process of:
Strengthening individuals – by increasing emotional resilience through interventions designed to promote self-esteem, life and coping skills, e.g. communicating, negotiating, relationship and parenting skills.
Strengthening communities – by increasing social inclusion and participation, improving neighborhood environments, developing health and social services which support mental health, anti-bullying strategies at school, workplace health, community safety, childcare and self-help networks.
Reducing structural barriers to mental health – by initiatives to reduce discrimination and inequalities and to promote access to education, meaningful employment, housing, services and support for those who are vulnerable.
CISE Malawi 