PETALING JAYA, Nov 5: Suara Minda (Mind Voice), a peer-led NGO dedicated to promoting mental health, marked this year’s World Mental Health Day (Oct 18) with a special event to raise more awareness of mental health and the importance of understanding and support for the mental well-being of people through the power of communities’ involvement.
Founded by individuals with lived experience and caregivers, Suara Minda offers art therapy, pottery, structured flower arrangement, and stone art, all aimed at rebuilding self-esteem, emotional balance, and social connection.
With the theme of “Community – Supporting Mental Well-Being Together” this year, various activities were organised including the launch of the book “Where Hope Rests – A Caregiver’s Story” by Mala Davi N. Thanjappan, The Indomitable Spirit Awards honouring peers and caregivers, creative therapy booths.
Participants included universities, NGOs, and corporate partners supporting inclusive well-being.
In her welcoming speech, Suara Minda president Vishalatchi Arunagiri said the chance for recovery is greatly enhanced when “creativity meets compassion. This World Mental Health Day, we gather not just to raise awareness but to build bridges of understanding, inclusion, and hope. Together, we can transform stigma into strength and isolation into belonging.”
She also said the event was intended to promote collaboration, empathy, and empowerment — connecting policymakers, professionals, caregivers, and individuals with lived experience.
–WE