With COVID so many things shifted and really changed for people all over the world. There has been a lot of exploration and discoveries, some good and some disturbing. While quarantining at home, psychotherapist Vanessa Schon was inspired to create a space in the community where people can share knowledge and resources on how to strengthen their mental health and well-being during these times of crisis.
Creating such a beautiful space takes a lot of effort and energy so Vanessa reached out to her colleague, psychotherapist Christine Smith to discuss this idea in more detail. Christine met Vanessa’s idea with excitement and an eagerness to start planning. These two psychotherapists started planning to make this dream a reality. One of the major desires with this conference was to highlight some of the knowledgeable clinicians in the community. There has been a lot of uncertainty and trauma that the world has faced over the last several months that exacerbate many mental health issues, the community needed skills and support that can help heal from all this trauma. The good news is that Puerto Vallarta is full of amazing clinicians it was only a matter of bring them all together to reach the community and their needs.
Vanessa and Christine wanted to name the conference accordingly to help the community to have a clear understanding of what the conference mission was, that is why they went with Rethink Mental Health. Surprisingly, mental health still has a stigma attached to it, that can deter individuals reaching out for support. The truth is everyone has mental health just like everyone has physical health and they are linked. Just think, when you are in physical pain do you notice that your thoughts are not very positive. For example maybe right after you stub your toe on your favorite table you might be thinking or saying “this stupid table is always in the way” or “I am such an idiot, I am always running into things”. Or vice versa maybe you have been feeling depressed lately and starting to notice that you developed digestive problems, chest pains, and sore muscles. You mind and body experience is linked and typically they both need be addressed before you get the relief you are looking for. The hope with the conference is that people can see mental health in a new way.
The mission of the conference is simple, increasing awareness for improved mental wellbeing through education, support, and advocacy. The two psychotherapists wanted to create an engaging conference full of great information. While the speakers are still being confirmed they can promise you it will be engaging and informative. The conference will be held in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico August 15 and 16th from 9am to 5pm each day. You will be able to find more information as things develop on the Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Rethink-Mental-Health-107790254274137/). They hope you can join in this transformative experience.
