On Mental Health with Theresa Alphonse | MPH LENS Episode 1

Interview with Theresa Alphonse

Theresa Alphonse is the Founder & Executive Director for What’s on Your Mind Inc a nonprofit focused on combating the stigma of mental health illness in communities of color by engaging in conversations around thoughts, emotions and feelings.

On the episode, we discusses the importance of mental health practices and how to prioritize mental wellness while achieving professional and educational goals. Theresa Alphonse shares her expertise on mental health and healthy practices. They debunk common misconceptions about mental health and emphasize the need to create safe spaces for conversations. They also explore the power of daily habits in shaping our lives and discuss strategies to avoid burnout as a public health professional. Finally, they provide tips for supporting mental health as an Master of Public Health (MPH) student.

Takeaways

Prioritizing mental health is vital for overall well-being and professional and educational success.
Misconceptions about mental health often undervalue its importance compared to physical health.
Safe spaces for mental health conversations promote understanding and support.
Daily habits significantly influence mental health.
Avoiding burnout in public health requires setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care.
MPH students can support their mental health through gratitude, community-building, and seeking balance.