Held under the theme “Street-Smart & Steady: Building Resilient Young People for a Healthier, Brighter Future,” the program brought together young people, adults, and other community members to discuss mental well-being, substance use awareness, emotional resilience, and positive behavioural choices.

Beyond the impressive attendance, however, the program created opportunities for learning, meaningful conversations, and access to support. Participants engaged with important issues affecting their lives and communities, while some expressed interest in seeking counselling after the event. For SHPI, these responses reinforced the need to make mental health information and support services more accessible to people who need them.

An Unexpected Turnout Reflecting Community Interest

The response in Otuoke exceeded expectations from the outset. Although the organizers had planned for 150 participants, 292 people attended, demonstrating considerable interest in the program and its message.

More importantly, the gathering brought together people of different ages and backgrounds, creating an opportunity for community-wide engagement. Rather than limiting conversations about mental health to young people alone, Project ACE encouraged broader participation and highlighted the role that families and communities play in promoting healthier choices.

Throughout the program, participants had opportunities to learn, ask questions, and reflect on issues such as emotional well-being, substance use, and responsible decision-making. Consequently, the event became more than an awareness campaign; it provided a space for people to engage with subjects that are often misunderstood or difficult to discuss openly.

The turnout also reinforced the value of community-based initiatives that bring relevant information closer to the people who need it.

From Mental Health Awareness to Seeking Support

While the attendance figure was encouraging, some of the most meaningful outcomes emerged from the conversations that followed the presentations.

During the program, community members shared testimonials about their experiences and the value of the information they received. In addition, some participants expressed interest in accessing counselling services, indicating a willingness to seek further guidance and support.

These responses highlighted an important connection between mental health education and help-seeking behaviour. Although awareness helps people understand their challenges, knowing where to find appropriate support can be an equally important step towards improving their well-being.

For this reason, SHPI considers the interest in counselling a significant aspect of the Otuoke engagement. It demonstrates why mental health initiatives should not end when an event concludes but should also help individuals identify appropriate avenues for continued support.

Furthermore, the experiences shared by participants reinforced the importance of creating safe and welcoming spaces where people can ask questions, discuss personal concerns, and learn that seeking help is a positive step towards addressing life’s challenges.

Empowering Young People with the Right Information

At the heart of Project ACE is the belief that young people are better equipped to make positive decisions when they have access to accurate information, practical knowledge, and appropriate support.

With this in mind, the 2026 edition focused on mental well-being, emotional resilience, substance use awareness, and positive behavioural choices. These issues are particularly relevant to young people who may encounter social pressure, emotional difficulties, and situations that require careful decision-making.

Through education and open discussion, Project ACE seeks to help young people understand the consequences of their choices, recognise potential risks, and develop healthier ways of responding to life’s challenges.

Nevertheless, promoting youth well-being requires the involvement of more than young people alone. The participation of adults and other community members in Otuoke demonstrated that building healthier environments is a shared responsibility.

When parents, community leaders, organizations, and young people engage in these conversations together, they create greater opportunities for understanding, guidance, and support.

Consequently, Project ACE continues to promote a community centered approach to youth empowerment, recognizing that informed individuals and supportive communities are both essential to lasting change.

Bringing Speakers, Partners, and Community Advocates Together

The success of the Otuoke program was made possible through the contributions of speakers, partners, volunteers, and other stakeholders who shared a commitment to improving community well-being.

Among the featured speakers were Chief Dr. Antonia Garner, Executive Director of Think Health Education Social Initiative; Tare Maureen Amananaghan of Fringe Voices Development Foundation; Bolatito Folarinmi, Executive Director of Shielded Lives Initiative; Prince E. Amiekumo; Evangelist Counselor Akhigbe Queen; and Brenda Nagberi, Esq., Executive Director of Bremon Educational Consult.

Through their participation, the program benefited from contributions from different professional and advocacy backgrounds, helping to advance its goal of providing relevant information and encouraging constructive conversations.

The initiative was endorsed by the Bayelsa State Ministry of Health and supported by collaborating organizations and partners committed to community development and well-being.

Meanwhile, volunteers and other members of the organizing team played an important role in coordinating activities and supporting participant engagement. Their collective efforts helped create an environment in which community members could learn, interact, and participate in the program.

SHPI appreciates everyone who contributed their time, knowledge, resources, and support towards making the Otuoke engagement possible.

Beyond Attendance: Building Lasting Community Impact

Although the participation of 292 people represents an important milestone, SHPI recognizes that the true value of a community program extends beyond the number of people who attend.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that participants leave with useful information, a better understanding of the issues discussed, and greater awareness of where to seek help when necessary.

In Otuoke, the testimonials shared and the interest expressed in counselling provided encouraging indications of engagement. However, sustained impact will depend on continued awareness, access to appropriate services, and opportunities for community members to apply what they have learned.

For SHPI, this understanding informs its commitment to promoting mental health education alongside counselling and other support initiatives. By connecting awareness with appropriate services, the organization aims to help individuals move from understanding their challenges towards taking constructive steps to address them.

Furthermore, community-based programs can help challenge misconceptions about mental health and substance use, encouraging more informed and compassionate responses to people experiencing difficulties.

Through continued engagement, SHPI hopes to strengthen community understanding and contribute to environments in which seeking support is encouraged rather than stigmatized.

From Otuoke to Toru-Orua: Extending the Reach of Project ACE

Following the Otuoke program on October 8, 2026, Project ACE continued its community engagement in Toru-Orua on October 10, 2026.

The two engagements formed part of SHPI’s broader effort to bring mental health education and youth empowerment to grassroots communities across Bayelsa State.

By taking the program to different communities, the organization sought to expand access to relevant information and create more opportunities for people to participate in conversations about mental well-being, substance use prevention, and positive life choices.

The experience in Otuoke provided encouraging momentum for this mission. In particular, the turnout demonstrated the importance of creating opportunities for communities to engage directly with issues affecting their lives.

As the organization continues its work, the lessons from the program will help reinforce its commitment to community engagement, accessible information, and appropriate support services.

A Shared Commitment to Healthier Communities

The Otuoke edition of Project ACE 3rd Edition 2026 marked an encouraging milestone for Safe Haven Positivity Initiative. By attracting 292 participants against an initial target of 150, the program exceeded expectations while creating opportunities for education, connection, and further support.

However, the significance of the event lies not only in the number of people who attended but also in the conversations it encouraged and the interest it generated in counselling and mental health support.

SHPI extends its sincere appreciation to the speakers, partners, volunteers, community leaders, and residents who contributed to the Program’s success. Their participation reflects the value of working together to promote healthier choices and stronger communities.

Looking ahead, the organization remains committed to empowering young people with accurate information, promoting emotional resilience, raising awareness of substance use, and encouraging positive behavioural choices.

Through Project ACE, SHPI continues to champion a simple but important message: when people have access to the right information, supportive environments, and appropriate services, they are better positioned to make informed decisions about their well-being.

The work does not end when a program concludes. Instead, every conversation, every new understanding, and every step towards seeking support creates another opportunity to make a difference.

The post Project ACE 2026: 292 Participants Attend SHPI’s Otuoke Mental Health Programme first appeared on Safe Haven Positivity Initiative.

In 2026, suicide remains an important global public health concern. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that more than 720,000 people die by suicide every year, with the majority of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. WHO also notes that for every person who dies by suicide, many more people attempt suicide.

These numbers represent real people such as parents, children, friends, students, colleagues, partners and community members.

Behind every statistic is a human story.

That is why suicide prevention requires more than awareness. It requires compassion, early intervention, responsible conversations and access to appropriate support.

What Is Suicide Prevention?

Suicide prevention refers to the actions taken to reduce the risk of suicide and help people experiencing suicidal thoughts or severe emotional distress.

Prevention can happen at many levels.

It can begin with one person noticing that a friend is struggling. It can happen when a parent takes a child’s emotional concerns seriously. It can happen when a teacher recognises changes in a student’s behaviour. It can also happen when communities make mental health support easier to access.

According to WHO, effective suicide prevention includes early identification and support, strengthening emotional and social skills, responsible communication about suicide, and reducing access to highly lethal means.

Suicide prevention is therefore everyone’s responsibility.

Why Suicide Prevention Matters in 2026

Life can place people under enormous pressure.

Financial difficulties, relationship problems, unemployment, academic pressure, grief, chronic illness, abuse, loneliness, discrimination and other stressful experiences can affect a person’s ability to cope.

Sometimes several difficulties happen at once.

A person who appears strong on the outside may be struggling deeply on the inside.

Suicidal thoughts can also occur during periods of intense emotional crisis. Importantly, suicide is rarely the result of one simple cause or one event. The factors involved are often complex and can include psychological, social, biological, environmental and economic circumstances.

This is why we should avoid statements such as, “They had everything,” or “Nothing was wrong with them.”

We may never know the full story someone was carrying.

Understanding Suicidal Thoughts

Having suicidal thoughts does not mean a person is weak, dramatic or attention-seeking.

It can be a sign that someone is experiencing severe emotional distress and feels unable to see a way forward.

WHO states that people experiencing suicidal thoughts can recover and that help is available. Talking about suicide does not cause someone to become suicidal. In fact, asking directly and compassionately about suicidal thoughts can help a person feel understood and supported.

A person may experience thoughts such as:

• Feeling that life is no longer worth living

• Feeling hopeless about the future

• Believing that other people would be better off without them

• Feeling trapped by a difficult situation

• Feeling unbearable emotional pain

• Believing that there is no solution to their problems

These experiences should never be dismissed.

Warning Signs We Should Take Seriously

There is no single warning sign that proves someone is suicidal. However, noticeable changes in someone’s emotions, behaviour or communication can indicate that they need support.

Possible warning signs include:

• Talking about death or wanting to die

• Saying they feel hopeless or have no reason to live

• Saying they are a burden to others

• Suddenly withdrawing from family and friends

• Losing interest in activities they previously enjoyed

Significant changes in mood

• Giving away important possessions

• Saying goodbye to people in an unusual way

• Looking for ways to harm themselves

• Increasing alcohol or drug use

• Engaging in unusually risky behaviour

• Experiencing intense emotional distress

WHO recommends taking these signs seriously, particularly when there is a noticeable change in a person’s behaviour or circumstances.

You do not need to be certain that someone is suicidal before showing concern.

If something feels different, check in.

How to Start a Conversation About Suicide

One of the most powerful things you can do is start a caring conversation.

You do not need perfect words.

You can simply say:

“I’ve noticed that you’ve not been yourself lately. How are you really doing?”

If you are concerned about suicide, you can ask directly:

“Have you been thinking about hurting yourself or ending your life?”

Asking the question does not put the idea into someone’s mind. It can instead create an opportunity for the person to speak honestly about what they are experiencing.

When they talk, listen without immediately judging, criticising or trying to solve everything.

You can say:

“I’m here with you.”

“Thank you for telling me.”

“You don’t have to handle this alone.”

“Let’s find some help together.”

“Your life matters to me.”

Sometimes the most important thing is simply helping someone feel less alone.

What Not to Say

Certain responses, although sometimes intended to encourage someone, can make them feel misunderstood.

Avoid saying:

“Other people have bigger problems.”

“You just need to be strong.”

“Think about your family.”

“You have everything to be grateful for.”

“Stop thinking negatively.”

“You’re only looking for attention.”

These statements can shut down communication.

Instead, acknowledge the person’s feelings without judging them.

You do not have to agree with every thought they have. You simply need to take their distress seriously.

What Should You Do If Someone Is at Immediate Risk?

If someone tells you that they intend to end their life or you believe they are in immediate danger, treat the situation seriously.

Do not leave the person alone if it is safe for you to remain with them.

Help them move away from anything they could use to harm themselves, where this can be done safely. Contact an appropriate emergency service, crisis service, health professional or trusted person who can provide immediate assistance.

Encourage the person to receive professional support from a mental health professional, doctor, counsellor or other qualified healthcare provider.

WHO specifically recommends staying with a person who is in immediate danger, seeking urgent professional assistance and reducing access to means of self-harm where possible.

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or believe you may act on them, please do not face the situation alone. Move toward another person, tell someone you trust what is happening, and seek urgent professional or emergency support.

Suicide Prevention Starts Before a Crisis

Prevention should not begin only when someone reaches breaking point.

We can build protective environments long before a crisis occurs.

1. Encourage Open Conversations

Families, schools, workplaces, faith communities and youth organisations can create spaces where people can discuss emotional struggles without being mocked or judged.

Talking about mental health should become normal.

2. Take Emotional Changes Seriously

A person does not have to reach a crisis before they deserve support.

Changes in sleep, mood, behaviour, relationships or daily functioning can be reasons to check in.

3. Strengthen Social Connections

Connection can be protective.

Regularly checking on friends, relatives, neighbours and colleagues can make a difference—especially for people who may be isolated.

A simple message such as “How are you doing?” can open an important conversation.

4. Make Professional Support Accessible

Counselling and mental health services should not be treated as a last resort.

People should be encouraged to seek professional support when emotional difficulties begin affecting their safety, relationships, work, education or everyday life.

5. Reduce Stigma

Stigma can prevent people from asking for help.

When people fear being labelled “crazy,” weak or attention-seeking, they may hide what they are experiencing.

A compassionate community makes it easier for people to say:

“I need help.”

And it responds with:

“Let’s get you the help you need.”

Young People Need Special Attention

Young people can experience significant emotional pressure from academic expectations, relationships, family conflict, social comparison, bullying, financial difficulties, uncertainty about the future and other challenges.

WHO identifies suicide as a major cause of death among young people globally.

Adults should therefore avoid assuming that young people’s problems are “just a phase.”

• Listen to them.

• Take their concerns seriously.

• Create safe spaces where they can talk.

And when necessary, connect them with appropriate professional support.

Suicide Prevention Is a Community Responsibility

Suicide prevention cannot be left entirely to mental health professionals.

Families have a role.

Schools have a role.

Healthcare workers have a role.

Community leaders have a role.

Employers have a role.

The media has a role.

Governments and policymakers have a role.

Friends and neighbours have a role.

WHO describes suicide prevention as a multisectoral responsibility involving health and other sectors, including education, labour, agriculture, justice, business and the media.

Everyone can contribute to creating environments where people are more likely to seek help and less likely to suffer in silence.

We Also Need to Talk About Responsible Media Coverage

How suicide is discussed publicly matters.

Sensational headlines, graphic descriptions, speculation about causes and overly detailed reporting can be harmful.

Responsible communication should focus on prevention, hope, recovery and available support.

When discussing suicide online, avoid romanticising or glorifying suicide. Avoid presenting it as an inevitable response to difficult circumstances.

Instead, use your platform to remind people that help exists.

Hope Is Part of Prevention

Suicide prevention is ultimately about creating pathways back to hope.

A person experiencing suicidal thoughts may not be able to imagine a better future at that moment.

That does not mean a better future is impossible.

Feelings can change.

Circumstances can change.

Support can make a difference.

Treatment can help.

Relationships can provide connection.

And people can recover.

WHO notes that suicidal crises can be temporary and that suicidal thoughts are not necessarily permanent.

This is why we should never assume that someone’s darkest moment defines their entire future.

What Can You Do Today?

You do not need to be a psychologist or mental health professional to contribute to suicide prevention.

You can:

• Check on someone.

• Listen without judgement.

• Take warning signs seriously.

• Encourage professional help.

• Learn about mental health.

• Challenge harmful stigma.

• Share reliable mental health information.

• Create supportive spaces for people to talk.

And perhaps most importantly:

Do not be afraid to ask someone how they are really doing.

A Message to Anyone Who Is Struggling

If you are reading this while experiencing emotional pain, please remember this:

• You do not have to solve your entire life today.

• You only need to take the next safe step.

• Tell someone.

• Stay connected.

• Seek professional support.

• Move toward people who can help you stay safe.

• What you are feeling deserves attention, not shame.

• You are more than this difficult moment.

• And asking for help is not a failure. It is an act of courage.

Let Us Choose Connection Over Silence

Suicide prevention is not about having one perfect conversation or finding one perfect solution.

It is about creating a culture where people know they can speak.

It is about noticing when someone is struggling.

It is about responding with compassion rather than judgement.

It is about making professional support accessible.

And it is about reminding people, especially during their darkest moments, that their story does not have to end there.

In 2026, let us move beyond simply saying “suicide prevention matters.”

Let us become people who actively prevent suicide by listening, connecting, educating, supporting and speaking up.

One conversation can open a door to help.

One person who chooses to listen can make someone feel less alone.

And one person who reaches out for help can begin a different chapter.

If You or Someone You Know Needs Help

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, contact your local emergency service or go to the nearest emergency department. You can also contact a qualified mental health professional, counsellor, doctor or trusted person who can help you access urgent support.

If someone is at immediate risk, do not leave them alone and seek urgent professional assistance.

You are not alone. Help is available.

The post World Suicide Prevention Day 2026: Creating Hope Through Action first appeared on Safe Haven Positivity Initiative.

Understanding Mental Health

What is Mental Health?

Mental health refers to all aspects of a person’s emotional, psychological and social functioning. It is the result of an imbalance in these areas which can have an impact on how we think, feel and behave as well as how we relate to other people and how we make decisions. Mental health is important both in early life and in adulthood.

The Importance of Mental Health Education

Mental health education is an important tool in increasing awareness and understanding of the issues associated with mental health within a community. It provides information regarding common mental health concerns, the causes and consequences of these problems, and how to seek services for them. Mental health education can also help sift through myths and misconceptions around mental health.

The Stigma Surrounding Mental Health

Stigma is one of the largest impediments to people seeking support for mental health problems. Untrue stereotypes and misconceptions can lead to discrimination and social isolation for people who are affected. Education can help break down these barriers, build empathy and open up conversations about mental health.

The Role of Advocacy in Mental Health

What is Advocacy?

Advocacy means actively advocating for or promoting a cause or policy. In the area of mental health advocacy is the process of changing public perceptions, policies and practices in the interests of better mental health support and resources.

Types of Advocacy

1. Advocacy for Individuals: Assist individuals in accessing mental health services and to ensure they receive the services they need.
2. Community Advocacy: Community advocacy includes education and advocacy for mental health resources and laws.
3. Policy Advocacy: Actively lobbying to pass legislation that impacts services and funding for mental health services.

The Impact of Advocacy on Mental Health

Effective advocacy can achieve many things, including access to mental health services improved by the funding for mental health programs and supportive policies developed by advocates; advocacy also creates a culture of acceptance of others and encourages them to seek help without judgment.

Strategies for Empowering Communities

1. Building Awareness Through Education

Education is a core aspect of empowerment. Communities may organize workshops, seminars, and informational sessions to teach members about their own mental health. Topics may be recognizing signs that one might have a mental health problem, how to manage oneself properly, and how to access resources.

Community mental health fairs, where local organizations offer resources, presentations and other activities to residents can increase their awareness and interest in mental illness.

2. Creating Safe Spaces for Dialogue

Critical for mental health protection is creating safe places for people to talk openly about their problems and raise questions and seek support. This can involve organizing support groups, working on a community forum, or using Internet.

Providing a monthly community dialogue session in which residents are encouraged to discuss issues of mental health and share their experiences with others can help build community support.

3. Engaging Local Leaders and Influencers

Often local leaders and influential people can make a big difference in the word about mental health. By working with experienced leaders and influencers in your community, you’ll be able to spread your message and reach more people.

With the help of local schools, churches and other institutions for religious and community service we can focus on coordinating an effort to promote mental health in our community.

4. Utilizing Social Media for Outreach

Social media is an effective and efficient way to spread awareness and create community connections. Through social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, organizations can share useful resources, success stories, and mental health tips.

For example, through a social media campaign to encourage community members to share their feelings about mental health.

5. Training Community Members as Mental Health Advocates

Encourage members of the community to become mental health advocates (training programs can provide participants with both the knowledge and skills to raise awareness and help others with mental health concerns).
Training resources for community members to lead workshops/support groups/etc. can be used to develop a network of educated advocates.

6. Collaborating with Mental Health Professionals

Connecting with mental health professionals to improve outreach in your community Provide valuable insight, resources, and support for community campaigns by working with mental health professionals.

Having mental health professionals involved in community events or providing training can help ensure that the educational content is accurate and relevant.

Challenges in Mental Health Education and Advocacy

1. Limited Resources

Many communities find it difficult to access funding for or access mental health resources, and without strong advocacy support for such resources it may be difficult to develop effective education and advocacy efforts.

Solution: You can create partnerships with local organizations and businesses to get funding and resources. Grant applications can also help provide additional funding for mental health.

2. Resistance to Change

Some members of the community may be resistant to talking about mental health or calling for change because of stigma/cultural beliefs. Working with people who are resistant takes time and patience.

If necessary, education and open dialogue can help break down stereotypes and reduce stigma. Initiatives that involve members of the community will enable them to feel ownership for what they do and to participate.

3. Variability in Community Needs

Each community has unique needs and challenges regarding mental health. What works in one community may not be effective in another.

Solution: Conducting assessments and gathering feedback from community members can help tailor initiatives to specific needs. Flexibility and adaptability are key to addressing diverse challenges.

The Long-Term Impact of Empowering Communities

Mental health education coupled with community advocacy creates deep-reaching benefits for society. Educated and supportive communities make mental health become a top priority for individuals so they can get help at the right time. The cultural transition results in several beneficial effects:

• Awareness and Reduction of Stigma : Talking about mental health provides awareness of its issue, reduces stigma and encourages individuals to seek help.
• Improvement in Mental Health Outcomes: Because more people become aware of and have access to mental health resources, their and the community’s mental health outcomes can improve.
• Increased Community Resilience: Empowered communities are better equipped to care for its members and thus generate resilience and belonging amongst the members.

Conclusion

Providing mental health education and advocacy to individuals and communities will help build a supportive environment that values, and celebrates mental health. By raising awareness, decreasing stigma, and opening discussion to address issues, communities can change how they approach mental health.

The change our mental health needs depends on community efforts to make progress in mental health awareness. A united front enables us to build a mindset which promotes understanding and support of mental health in society. The outcome will result in stronger communities which are also healthier. Driving emotional independence begins with personal commitment but its achievement demands collective action.

The post Empowering Communities Through Mental Health Education and Advocacy first appeared on Safe Haven Positivity Initiative.