In Zimbabwe, a unique form of mental health therapy is gaining recognition and inspiring initiatives in other countries, including the United States. Dubbed the “Friendship Bench,” this form of therapy involves setting up benches in community clinics, churches, and neighborhoods where older women with basic training in problem-solving therapy provide one-on-one support to individuals in need.
The concept was pioneered by Dixon Chibanda, a psychiatry professor in Zimbabwe, who recognized the value of grandmothers as custodians of local wisdom and culture. The initiative has received acclaim, with Chibanda winning a $150,000 prize for revolutionizing mental healthcare. The idea has since spread to countries like Vietnam, Botswana, Malawi, and Kenya, as well as preliminary work in London.
In the United States, the Friendship Bench concept is being adopted in areas like New York and Washington, where older individuals are trained to listen, empathize, and empower others to solve their problems. This initiative aims to address risk factors such as social isolation and stigma around mental health.
The success of the Friendship Bench program is evident in the thousands of Zimbabweans who have benefitted from the therapy provided by trained grandmothers. The program not only offers practical help but also serves as a symbol of hope and support for those struggling with mental health issues. As more communities embrace this innovative approach, the stigma surrounding mental health is slowly being dismantled, and individuals are finding solace and healing through the wisdom and compassion of their elders.
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