HUDSON SPEAKS Hosts Mental Health Seminar and Brings Resources to Nepali-Speaking Community

On Sunday, June 30th, 2024, HUDSON S.P.E.A.K.S. and its partner organizations successfully hosted a free Mental Health Seminar for the Nepali-speaking community at 81 Sip Ave., Jersey City, NJ 07306. The event, which ran from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, was dedicated to addressing critical mental health issues within the South Asian American community.

Over 100 participants attended the seminar, which featured a panel of mental health experts discussing a range of issues including anxiety, depression, suicide, and the importance of identifying problems and seeking help.

Bishnu Maya Pariyar, M.A., Hon. DLitt., Program Director of Hudson S.P.E.A.K.S., inaugurated the event by highlighting its significance for the South Asian American community. Her welcome address underscored the organization’s commitment to fostering mental health awareness and support within marginalized groups.

Dinesh Shrestha, M.Sc. Counseling, LPC, LCDC, Clinical Therapist at Mind Therapy, Texas, discussed core issues of anxiety, depression, suicide, and the critical importance of recognizing mental health problems and seeking professional help. He emphasized the prevalence of these issues within the South Asian community and the need for culturally sensitive mental health services.

Deepak Chaudhari, MPA, NYU, Community Engagement & Training Specialist at the New York City Department of Health and Hygiene, provided a historical background of Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islanders and the specific mental health challenges they face. He offered a historical context to better understand the cultural and societal factors influencing mental health within these communities.

Mitsu Puri, M.A. Psychology, Columbia University, Community Engagement & Training Specialist at the New York City Department of Health and Hygiene, trained participants in mindfulness techniques and shared comprehensive resources and strategies to access mental health care, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and support networks.

Guest speaker Prof. Stacey Flanagan, Director of the Department of Health & Human Services, City of Jersey City, stressed the necessity of mental health programs, funding, and community outreach in Jersey City.

Keisher Harris, Staff Member at the Department of Health & Human Services, City of Jersey City, provided citywide mental health resources and trainings.

Dr. Rakesh Ghimire, Assistant Professor & Project Head at the Nepal Poison Information Center, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, highlighted the critical need for mental health education and intervention in society. Sumitra Manandhar, former Democracy, Rights and Governance Specialist at USAID, emphasized the global perspective on mental health issues and the importance of international cooperation and support.

Harvard University reports that an estimated 58 million American adults — more than one in five — live with a mental illness such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, among others. More women than men receive treatment such as medication or counseling for such issues.

USAID reports that worldwide, more than 80 percent of individuals with mental health conditions have little or no access to the care they require. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that in 2019, 970 million people globally were living with a mental disorder, with anxiety and depression being the most common.

Hudson S.P.E.A.K.S. Against Sexual Violence is dedicated to creating safer communities and supporting survivors’ healing. The organization focuses on inclusivity, uplifting marginalized identities through diversity initiatives, culturally relevant advocacy, and trauma-informed services. They serve all survivors of sexual assault over the age of 13, regardless of gender, race, religion, financial status, immigration status, educational background, gender identity, or sexual preference. Their services also extend to family members, marital/dating partners, and friends. Hudson S.P.E.A.K.S. aims to end sexual violence through education, awareness, empowerment, support, and advocacy for all affected individuals.

The Mental Health Seminar by Hudson S.P.E.A.K.S. was a significant event that addressed crucial mental health issues within the South Asian American community. It underscored the need for culturally sensitive mental health services and ongoing community engagement to support mental well-being. The insights shared by the panelists and guest speakers provided valuable perspectives and resources, highlighting the importance of regular mental health programs and international cooperation to address these pervasive issues.