24th July 2023, Mumbai: Athena Behavioral Health took great pride in hosting an extraordinary carnival event titled “Promoting Better LGBTQ+ Mental Health and Well-Being” on July 15, 2023, in collaboration with the Bellissimo Team at The Muse Sarovar Portico. This event was specifically designed to establish a secure and encouraging environment for the LGBTQ+ community, with a strong focus on their mental health, inclusivity, and empowerment. Recognizing the immense challenges faced by this community and their unfortunate marginalization, Athena Behavioral Health is dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging and promoting their overall well-being through this incredibly empowering event.
Athena Behavioral Health’s Empowering Event for LGBTQ+ Community
The highlight of this remarkable gathering was undoubtedly the diverse panel of speakers which included influential advocates, mental health professionals, community leaders, and individuals who have personally experienced the struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Their insightful talks shed light on crucial aspects of LGBTQ+ mental health and well-being. Some notable speakers included Devika Manglamukhi – Advisor to Transgender Welfare Board (UP Govt), Damini Sinha – an activist, co-author, and public speaker specializing in transgender inclusion awareness and empowerment – as well as Dr. Charu Dutt Arora – a social entrepreneur strongly advocating for LGBTQ+ community health issues. These esteemed individuals provided valuable expertise on the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community while emphasizing the importance of prioritizing their mental health and empowerment.
Diverse Speakers and Experts Advocate for LGBTQ+ Mental Health
In addition to these engaging talks, attendees were also treated to an enlightening theatre workshop facilitated by Vatsla Khera – a renowned theatre artist, visual artist, and entrepreneur. This workshop aimed to equip participants with practical tools, strategies, and resources that can enhance their mental health within the LGBTQ+ community as well as improve their overall well-being. Topics covered during this workshop included self-care practices, navigating societal challenges, resilience building,and promoting healthy relationships. Creating a safe space for networking opportunities was also deemed highly important throughout the event. Attendees were encouraged to connect with like-minded individuals, share their personal stories, and build supportive relationships within the LGBTQ+ community. Athena Behavioral Health firmly believes in the power of strong community ties and support networks as essential elements for promoting mental health and empowerment among LGBTQ+ individuals.
Building Supportive Connections and Embracing Diversity
Adding to the festive atmosphere, participants were treated to captivating dance performances by Gagandeep Sharma – India’s first Tanoura dancer. Furthermore, various expressive arts activities encouraged attendees to freely express themselves while fostering creativity and self-expression. Carnival games and interactive activities added to the joyous atmosphere, allowing everyone present to relax, engage with others, celebrate the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community,and experience the pure pleasure of communal celebration.
Dr. Shradha Malik’s Vision: Fostering Inclusivity and Empowerment
Dr. Shradha Malik – Founder of Athena Behavioral Health – expressed her utmost excitement about this event stating,”We are absolutely thrilled about organizing ‘Promoting Better LGBTQ+ Mental Health and Well-Being’. Our primary mission is to prioritize mental health and overall well-being within the LGBTQ+ community by creating spaces that foster inclusivity and empowerment. This event serves as an exceptional platform for education, connection,and celebration while promoting a sense of belonging and empowerment within the LGBTQ+ community. By coming together at these platforms, we can create a stronger society that values inclusivity while uplifting mental health and well-being for all individuals.”
The carnival event organized by Athena Behavioral Health successfully shines a much-needed spotlight on promoting better mental health and overall well-being within the LGBTQ+ community while fostering inclusivityand empowerment. The diverse range of speakers, workshops,and expressive arts activities provided invaluable insights along with practical toolsand resources for enhancing mental health among this vibrant community.Moreover,the emphasis on building supportive relationships alongside celebrating diversity created a safe yet empowering space for all attendees.As we witness continuous growth withintheLGBTQ+community,this kindofevent plays a pivotal role in creating an even more inclusive society that genuinely valuesand prioritizes the well-being and empowerment of all individuals.
By Yashika Desai.