The Friendship Bench, a program begun in Zimbabwe in which grandmothers and older listeners serve as “first responders” for those seeking mental health assistance in underserved communities, has now expanded to nine countries, including the U.S.
Dr. Dixon Chibanda remembers like yesterday the moment in 2005 that changed his life. the Friendship Bench, a program begun in Zimbabwe in which grandmothers and older listeners serve as “first responders” for those seeking mental health assistance in underserved communities, has now expanded to nine countries, including the U.S.The Friendship Bench (FB) project is an evidence-based intervention developed in Zimbabwe to bridge the mental health treatment gap. The FB aims to enhance mental well-being and improve quality of life through the use of problem-solving therapy delivered by trained lay health workers, focusing on people who are suffering from common mental disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
guided by our values of empathy and connection, Friendship Bench Zimbabwe mental health supporters provide free talk therapy and establish group support and income generation projects. we are reimagining the delivery of evidence-based mental healthcare. dixon Chibanda. A Randomized Clinical Trial
He chronicled this journey in a new book: “The Friendship Bench: How Fourteen Grandmothers Inspired a Mental Health Revolution” (New World Library).”When I first started this, in fact we called it the Mental Health Bench,” he said. “, nobody came to the Mental Health Bench, because of the stigma, until the grandmas said, ‘You know, why don’t you turn it into a Friendship Bench?'”
During that first year, 14 volunteer grandmothers shared a Friendship Bench with several hundred visitors in that one suburb. Chibanda says the program has since expanded beyond grandmothers to include over 3,000 older listeners who last year saw more than 300,000 people all over Zimbabwe.
he said, “There are a lot of people out there who are struggling to just connect with another human being. And this gives them that opportunity, to be able to sit down with someone who is empathic.”
The Friendship Bench: A Beacon of hope in the Fight Against Depression and Loneliness
Table of Contents
Globally, just under 300 million people are struggling with depression, according to the World Health Institution.Only about one-third of them receive any treatment. At a time when we’re facing an epidemic of loneliness and isolation affecting 1 in 5 American adults, according to a 2024 Gallup poll, the Friendship Bench is hitting the road, expanding to vulnerable communities in nine countries and counting, including the United States.
At the Washington Seniors Wellness Center, in our nation’s capital, the program is being piloted by the nonprofit organization HelpAge USA, which focuses on the inclusion of older people.
Seventy-four-year-old Arnette Ibitayo says she was struggling with the deaths of her son and brother.”My son’s was sudden; he had a heart attack at 44,” she said. ”And then my brother had COVID.” She turned to the Friendship Bench. “So I’m, you know, feeling down, depressed,” she said. “I think I need to talk to somebody, because I felt like isolating and staying home. And it was very comforting to get it out. And I wasn’t judged, and I was able to speak freely, and the person gave me some helpful advice.”
!friendship Bench in Washington D.C.
The Friendship Bench program has expanded to nine countries,including the United States.
That person was Theresa Kelly, a retired schoolteacher, who listened to Ibitayo’s story. “We don’t solve problems for them,” Kelly said.”Sometimes you don’t realize that you can be your own problem solver. and when they finish, we want them to leave empowered.”
Key Points: The Impact of the Friendship Bench
| Aspect | Details |
|———————-|————————————————————————-|
| Global Reach | Expanding to nine countries, including the United States. |
| Target Audience | Vulnerable communities, particularly seniors. |
| Approach | Provides a safe space for individuals to share their struggles and receive support. |
| Empowerment | Focuses on helping individuals become their own problem solvers. |
The Friendship Bench initiative is more than just a program; it’s a lifeline for those battling depression and loneliness. By offering a supportive environment where individuals can share their stories without judgment, the program empowers participants to find their own solutions.
Conclusion
In a world grappling with mental health challenges and social isolation, the Friendship bench stands as a beacon of hope. Its expansion to multiple countries, including the United States, signals a commitment to addressing these critical issues. As the program continues to grow, it offers a model for how communities can come together to support one another, fostering resilience and empowerment.
For more details on the Friendship Bench and how you can get involved, visit the HelpAge USA website.
Stay informed and engaged with the latest news and updates on mental health initiatives.
The Healing Power of Grandparents: the Friendship Bench Initiative
In the heart of Zimbabwe, a unique and innovative approach to mental health is gaining traction, thanks to the efforts of Dr. Dixon Chibanda and his team. Known as “The Friendship Bench,” this initiative leverages the natural abilities of grandparents to provide emotional support and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. The program has been a beacon of hope for many,offering a novel solution to mental health challenges in communities.
A Research-Backed Approach
Dr. Chibanda, who has been instrumental in the growth and analysis of the program for nearly two decades, emphasizes that “The Friendship Bench is actually rooted in a lot of research.” The findings were surprising: grandmothers were more effective than trained mental health professionals in reducing symptoms of depression and generalized anxiety disorders. This revelation led to the formalization of the program, which has since been adopted in various communities.
empowering Grandparents, Healing Communities
The program works by tapping into the wealth of life experiences that grandparents possess. According to Dr. Chibanda, “it is the natural abilities that come with having a long-lived life on the planet. They’ve seen a lot, experienced a lot, and have the battle scars of life, which they bring to the bench. All we’re doing as Friendship Bench is helping them to use those stories, those experiences, to help others.”
Theresa Kelly, one of the grandmothers involved in the program, finds great fulfillment in her role. “I love helping people, empowering people.It makes me feel good. Makes me feel that [I have] still another purpose, that after retirement there’s still something, you know, that I can do that can help others, that it’s not over.”
real-Life impact
Arnette Ibitayo is one of the many individuals who have benefited from the program. After just one session with Kelly, she felt a noticeable improvement. “I was more at ease. It worked. It was working,” she said. When asked if she felt less depressed, Ibitayo responded, “Yes, uh-huh. There’s hope that things are going to be better.”
the Special Sauce: Grandparental Wisdom
What sets The Friendship Bench apart is the unique blend of empathy, wisdom, and life experience that grandparents bring to the table. this intangible yet powerful asset is harnessed to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for those in need.
Conclusion
The Friendship Bench initiative is a testament to the power of community and the untapped potential of our elders. By empowering grandparents to share their experiences and provide emotional support, the program is not only alleviating mental health symptoms but also giving purpose to those who might otherwise feel marginalized.
For more information about mental health care resources and support, you can reach out to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine.The NAMI helpline can be reached Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. ET, at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or email [email protected].
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or a suicidal crisis, you can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. You can also chat with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline here.
Key Points Summary
| aspect | Description |
|————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| Initiative | The Friendship bench, a mental health support program using grandparents |
| Founder | Dr. Dixon Chibanda |
| Duration | Nearly 20 years |
| Effectiveness | Grandmothers more effective than trained professionals |
| Benefits | Alleviates symptoms of depression and anxiety |
| Purpose | Empowers grandparents, provides community support |
| Contact | NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or [email protected] |
| Crisis Line | 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call,text,or chat 988 |
This innovative approach to mental health is a shining example of how community and personal connections can play a vital role in healing and support.Jon LaPook: CBS News’ Chief Medical Correspondent
Jon LaPook, M.D., is a distinguished figure in the realm of journalism, serving as the award-winning chief medical correspondent for CBS News. His extensive contributions span across various platforms and programs, making him a household name in the health and medical reporting sphere.
As joining CBS News in 2006, LaPook has consistently delivered over 1,200 reports. His coverage ranges from breaking news and trending stories in health and medicine to feature stories on music, lifestyle, and profiles of entertainment stars. This diverse portfolio showcases his versatility and deep understanding of multiple domains.
LaPook’s dedication to his craft is evident in his comprehensive reporting. He has covered a wide array of topics,from groundbreaking medical advancements to celebrity health profiles. His ability to translate complex medical information into accessible and engaging content has earned him a loyal audience.One of LaPook’s notable strengths is his ability to connect with his audience on a personal level. Whether discussing the latest in medical research or offering lifestyle tips,he ensures that his reports are both informative and relatable. This approach has made him a trusted source for millions of viewers.In addition to his medical reporting, LaPook has also covered meaningful events in the entertainment industry.His profiles of celebrities and entertainment stars provide unique insights into the personal lives of public figures, adding a human touch to his work.
LaPook’s contributions extend beyond CBS News. He has been recognized for his excellence in journalism, receiving numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. These accolades are a testament to his commitment to delivering high-quality, impactful reporting.
To summarize LaPook’s remarkable career and contributions,here is a table highlighting key points:
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|——————————————————————————|
| Position | Chief Medical Correspondent for CBS News |
| Years at CBS | As 2006 |
| Reports Delivered | Over 1,200 reports across various domains |
| Coverage Areas | Health,medicine,music,lifestyle,entertainment profiles |
| Awards | Numerous awards and accolades for excellence in journalism |
LaPook’s impact on journalism is undeniable. His ability to blend medical expertise with engaging storytelling has set a high standard in the industry. As he continues to evolve and adapt, LaPook remains a beacon of reliable and insightful reporting.
For more information on Jon LaPook and his work, visit the CBS News profile.
Engage with LaPook’s latest reports and stay informed on the latest trends in health and medicine by following CBS News.
Interview with Jon LaPook: CBS News’ Chief Medical correspondent
Jon LaPook, M.D., is a distinguished figure in the realm of journalism, serving as the award-winning chief medical correspondent for CBS News. His extensive contributions span across various platforms and programs, making him a household name in the health and medical reporting sphere.
As joining CBS News in 2006, LaPook has consistently delivered over 1,200 reports. His coverage ranges from breaking news and trending stories in health and medicine to feature stories on music, lifestyle, and profiles of entertainment stars. This diverse portfolio showcases his versatility and deep understanding of multiple domains.
LaPook’s dedication to his craft is evident in his comprehensive reporting. He has covered a wide array of topics, from groundbreaking medical advancements to celebrity health profiles. His ability to translate complex medical information into accessible and engaging content has earned him a loyal audience. One of LaPook’s notable strengths is his ability to connect with his audience on a personal level. Whether discussing the latest in medical research or offering lifestyle tips, he ensures that his reports are both informative and relatable. This approach has made him a trusted source for millions of viewers.
along with his medical reporting, LaPook has also covered meaningful events in the entertainment industry. His profiles of celebrities and entertainment stars provide unique insights into the personal lives of public figures, adding a human touch to his work.
LaPook’s contributions extend beyond CBS News. He has been recognized for his excellence in journalism, receiving numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. These accolades are a testament to his commitment to delivering high-quality,impactful reporting.
to summarize LaPook’s remarkable career and contributions, here is a table highlighting key points:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Chief Medical correspondent for CBS News |
| Years at CBS | Since 2006 |
| Reports Delivered | Over 1,200 reports across various domains |
| Coverage Areas | Health, medicine, music, lifestyle, entertainment profiles |
| Awards | Numerous awards and accolades for excellence in journalism |
LaPook’s impact on journalism is undeniable. His ability to blend medical expertise with engaging storytelling has set a high standard in the industry. As he continues to evolve and adapt, LaPook remains a beacon of reliable and insightful reporting.
For more information on Jon LaPook and his work, visit the CBS News profile.
Engage with LaPook’s latest reports and stay informed on the latest trends in health and medicine by following CBS News.
