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1、Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental WellnessJune 2024Wellness Policy SeriesWellness Policy Toolkit:Mental WellnessJune 2024Wellness Policy SeriesCopyright 2024 by the Global Wellness InstituteQuotation of,citation from,and reference to any of the data,findings,and research methodology from this report mu

2、st be credited to“Global Wellness Institute,Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness,June 2024.”For more information,please contact researchglobalwellnessinstitute.org or visit www.globalwellnessinstitute.org.Contents Preface:About the Wellness Policy Series1Background:What Is Wellness Policy?5Defini

3、ng wellness5Defining wellness policy7Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness9Making the case for wellness policy:Mental wellness11Three levels of policy action:Mental wellness17Who can champion policy for mental wellness18Policy actions for mental wellness221:Improve mental wellness literacy252:Incr

4、ease access to activities and spaces that promote mental wellness353:Create more socially connected communities494:Promote mental wellness among children and youth595:Integrate mental wellness-supporting policies into healthcare and other wellness sectors67Key resources:Mental wellness77Appendix:Tax

5、onomy of policy tools for effective mental wellness promotion81About the AuthorsAbout the Global Wellness InstituteThe Global Wellness Institute(GWI),a 501(c)(3)non-profit organization,is considered the leading global research and educational resource for the global wellness industry and is known fo

6、r introducing major industry initiatives and regional events that bring together leaders and visionaries to chart the future.GWI positively impacts global health and wellness by advocating for both public institutions and businesses that are working to help prevent disease,reduce stress,and enhance

7、overall quality of life.Its mission is to empower wellness worldwide.www.globalwellnessinstitute.orgAbout the AuthorsWellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness was prepared by Tonia Callender,Ophelia Yeung,and Katherine Johnston.As GWIs principal researchers,they are the team that defines and measures

8、the size of the global wellness economy and spearheads the wellness policy series.Their academic and professional background is in international development and public policy,and Ms.Callender,Ms.Yeung,and Ms.Johnston received post-graduate degrees from Harvard,Princeton,and Georgetown Universities,r

9、espectively.Together,they bring many decades of experience conducting research,impact assessments,and strategy development for countries,regions,industry consortia,companies,and nonprofit institutions.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|1GLOBAL WELLNESS INSTITUTE:WELLNESS POLICY SERIESPrefaceAbo

10、ut the Wellness Policy SeriesWhy is GWI releasing a Wellness Policy Series?Since its inception,the Global Wellness Institute(GWI)has embraced the vision of“empowering wellness worldwide.”Even as we study and advocate for the multi-trillion dollar wellness economy,we also recognize that the private w

11、ellness market and consumer action alone cannot bring about wellness for all.Widespread adoption of preventive approaches and healthy lifestyles is essential if we are to address our mounting global health crises and spiraling economic costs.And yet,not everyone has the resources,motivation,knowledg

12、e,or enabling environment to do so.Public policy is essential to fill these gaps.This realization is the genesis of GWIs Wellness Policy Series.Who is the Wellness Policy Series for?When we talk about policy,the implication is that we are speaking to governments,but this series is not just for gover

13、nment stakeholders.Policies to advance the cause of wellness for all require the attention,participation,and cooperation of public,private,and nonprofit/community stakeholders.In fact,the separate development streams and“siloes”across consumer/business wellness,public health systems,and preventive h

14、ealth/medicine have impeded us from making greater strides toward this goal.GWIs Wellness Policy Series was created to support anyone who would like to leverage policy as a tool to promote better human health and well-being.Whether you are a government leader,policymaker,public servant,private busin

15、ess,nonprofit,or concerned citizen,this series will provide you with cross-cutting and actionable ideas for policies,programs,collaborations,and advocacy efforts to address gaps,meet the needs of different population groups,and expand access to wellness for all.2|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness P

16、olicy SeriesWhat is covered in the Wellness Policy Series?The Wellness Policy Series is a compilation of nine reports,which aim to define wellness policy,articulate why it is needed,and provide a framework and set of strategies for implementing wellness policies across many domains of wellness.The s

17、eries includes the following reports:Defining Wellness Policy(November 2022)Health,Happiness,and the Wellness Economy:An Empirical Analysis(January 2023)Seven Wellness Policy Toolkits(2023-2025)Healthy Eating Physical Activity(April 2023)Mental Wellness(June 2024)Traditional&Complementary Medicine W

18、ellness in the Built Environment Wellness at Work Wellness in Tourism(March 2024)Access all reports in the GWI Wellness Policy Series at:https:/globalwellnessinstitute.org/wellness-policy-series/.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|3What are the Wellness Policy Toolkits?The Wellness Policy Toolk

19、its are a core part of GWIs Wellness Policy Series.The toolkits focus on seven domains of wellness(see table below).Each toolkit addresses both the why and how of wellness policy:What is the rationale and need for wellness policy action in each domain?How can stakeholders(governments,businesses,comm

20、unities,nonprofits)take action to address important issues and gaps?Wellness Policy Domains Covered in GWIs Wellness Policy ToolkitsWellness Activities and LifestylesWellness-Supporting Environments Healthy Eating Physical Activity Mental Wellness Traditional&Complementary Medicine Wellness in the B

21、uilt Environment Wellness at Work Wellness in TourismSome of the domains covered in the toolkits already have a massive body of research,literature,strategies,and action plans behind them(e.g.,physical activity,healthy eating),while other domains do not(e.g.,mental wellness,wellness in tourism).A ma

22、jor new contribution of the Wellness Policy Toolkits is to consolidate and codify all of the domains and policy actions that fall under the large umbrella of“wellness policy.”In addition,the toolkits emphasize the numerous areas of intersection across the seven wellness domains and how policy action

23、s in one domain can have impacts across other areas.For example,policies focusing on the built environment can affect our individual behaviors related to physical activity,mental wellness,and healthy eating.Policies that encourage physical activity can have an impact on mental wellness.The Wellness

24、Policy Toolkits are intended to spark thinking,conversations,analyses,advocacy,and concrete efforts that will promote access to wellness modalities and deliver well-being outcomes for people across all demographic groups and regions.The toolkits are designed to be modular and general enough that the

25、y can be applied across many different political,geographic,and demographic contexts.They are a starting point that provides a menu of possible actions and can be used in many different ways.Some readers may use the toolkits as inspiration for developing their own comprehensive strategy or action pl

26、an to target the specific wellness needs of their city,region,or country.Some readers may use the toolkits to identify one or two very specific areas where they can contribute or take action within their own job,professional field,or organization.Those who are not already immersed or working in thes

27、e wellness domains can use the toolkits as a quick-start guide to understanding the issues,opportunities,and where to find more information.Wellness industry stakeholders can use the toolkits to spark new ideas on building partnerships to expand wellness offerings,as well as advocacy efforts to enco

28、urage governments to prioritize wellness services/businesses as essential public services.4|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy Series Business leaders can use the toolkits to identify areas where they can take action and contribute to improving wellness for their employees,clients,constituent

29、s,communities,and stakeholders(without waiting for the government to mandate it).Individuals can use the toolkits to lobby their government leaders for specific policies and programs that expand access to wellness in their own communities,cities,and countries.Much more work needs to be done in welln

30、ess policy to ensure that it is embedded in all policymaking and government investment decisions,and to help us understand which kinds of policies are most effective across different settings and populations.We hope that this Wellness Policy Series will spark a wellness policy movement that can be c

31、hampioned by any interested stakeholder groups.We invite all stakeholders in the public,private,nonprofit,and academic communities to join in this movement.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|5Defining wellness.To understand wellness policy,we must first understand wellness.The Global Wellness I

32、nstitute(GWI)defines wellness as:the active pursuit of activities,choices,and lifestyles that lead to a state of holistic health.There are two important aspects to this definition.First,wellness is not a passive or static state,but rather an“active pursuit”that is associated with intentions,choices,

33、and actions as we work toward an optimal state of health and well-being.Second,wellness is linked to holistic health that is,it extends beyond physical health and incorporates many different dimensions that should work in harmony(see figure).Wellness is often confused with terms like health,well-bei

34、ng,and happiness.While there are common elements among them,wellness is different in that it is not associated with a static state(i.e.,being happy,in good health,or a state of well-being),but rather an active process of being aware and working toward optimal holistic health and well-being.SOCIALPHY

35、SICALMENTALSPIRITUALEMOTIONALWELLNESSENVIRON-MENTALWellness Is MultidimensionalGLOBAL WELLNESS INSTITUTE:WELLNESS POLICY SERIESBackgroundWhat Is Wellness Policy?Note that the content presented in this section is condensed from GWIs November 2022 report,Defining Wellness Policy(the first report in th

36、e Wellness Policy Series).For a more in-depth discussion of these topics,see:https:/globalwellnessinstitute.org/industry-research/2022-defining-wellness-policy/.6|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy SeriesWellness is both behavioral and environmental.Wellness is an individual pursuit based on

37、self-responsibility,but it is also significantly influenced by the physical,social,and cultural environments in which we live.Research on the determinants of health indicates that environmental,socioeconomic,and lifestyle factors can account for 80-90%of our disease risks and health outcomes.1 Those

38、 who are very young,elderly,disabled,or poor are particularly vulnerable to these external factors.2A complex web of factors(access to healthcare,socioeconomic factors,and our natural and built environments)form a“wellness ecosystem”that can augment or mitigate our genetic disposition for disease.Ou

39、r wellness ecosystem has a direct effect on our health by transmitting communicable and environmental diseases.It also indirectly affects our health by influencing our behaviors and lifestyles,which can lead to noncommunicable diseases.Public policies shape our wellness ecosystems.Governments and pu

40、blic policies exert enormous influence on our wellness ecosystem from economic and social policies,to urban planning and transportation infrastructure,to environmental regulations,and much more.They can create wellness-supporting environments,establish incentives for adopting healthy behaviors and l

41、ifestyles,reduce costs,and expand access to wellness modalities and facilities for underserved populations.In these areas,wellness policy fills critical gaps and complements existing healthcare systems and public health policies.Wellness policy is essential to help us stay physically and mentally we

42、ll,to stave off preventable disease,to become resilient,and to move us closer to the goal of wellness for all.1 Magnan,S.(2017).Social Determinants of Health 101 for Health Care:Five Plus Five.NAM Perspectives.Washington,DC:National Academy of Medicine.https:/nam.edu/social-determinants-of-health-10

43、1-for-health-care-five-plus-five/.See also:Hood,C.M.,et al(2016).County health rankings:Relationships between determinant factors and health outcomes.American Journal of Preventive Medicine,50(2),129-135.https:/doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2015.08.024.2 See:1)Braveman,P.,et al(2011).Issue Brief#8:Neighb

44、orhoods and Health.Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.http:/www.rwjf.org/en/library/research/2011/05/neighborhoods-and-health-.html.2)Institute of Medicine and National Research Council(2013).U.S.Health in International Perspective:Shorter Lives,Poorer Health.Washington,DC:The National Academies Press.h

45、ttps:/doi.org/10.17226/13497.Source:Global Wellness InstituteWELLNESSECOSYSTEMBuilt&Natural EnvironmentHealth CareEnvironmentGenetic/BiologicalFactorsUp to 80-90%of our health outcomes depend upon the external and environmental factors in our wellness ecosystemSocioeconomicEnvironmentDirectBehaviors

46、&LifestyleHEALTH OUTCOMESWellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|7Defining wellness policy.Wellness is a lens through which we can reshape public policy and work toward improving human health,happiness,and well-being outcomes.Wellness policy complements and supports health,public health,and happines

47、s/well-being policies,but it is not the same thing.Levels of action for wellness policy.Public policies can be formulated to shape our wellness at three levels(see further discussion in the Toolkit section of this document):1.Micro-level wellness policy:Encouraging individuals to proactively make he

48、althy choices,establish healthy habits,and live healthy lifestyles.2.Meso-level wellness policy:Creating living environments that support and encourage healthy behaviors and lifestyles.3.Macro-level policy:Reshaping all policies related to our wider society and economy,with the aim of improving huma

49、n health and well-being.In many cases,macro-level policies such as reducing poverty,stopping armed conflicts,or addressing climate change will have a greater impact on our health and well-being than the meso-and micro-level policies targeting individual behaviors and community environments.Macro-lev

50、el policies covering the entire range of public policy action are vitally important to human health and well-being.Addressing these issues is critical,but it requires long-term,systemic changes,as well as political will and compromises,which can be difficult to achieve.In GWIs Wellness Policy Series

51、,we focus primarily on actions at the micro-and meso-levels.Wellness policies at the micro-and meso-levels complement national-level well-being policy efforts.They can be implemented and have benefits for people immediately,even while we wait for the glacial progress in solving our long-term macro c

52、rises and shifting our overarching policy priorities toward well-being.The Global Wellness Institute defines wellness policy as follows:Wellness policy is a set of cross-cutting actions that encourage healthy lifestyles and create supportive environments for human health and well-being.8|Global Well

53、ness Institute:Wellness Policy SeriesSeven wellness domains covered in GWIs Wellness Policy Toolkits.As noted above,we have identified seven domains in which wellness policy can encourage healthy behaviors and lifestyles and that create wellness-supporting environments.These seven domains do not fun

54、ction independently from one another.They are closely interrelated,and policy actions within one domain can have impacts across other areas.For example,policies focusing on the built environment can affect our individual behaviors related to physical activity,mental wellness,and healthy eating.Polic

55、ies that encourage physical activity can have an impact on mental wellness.Each Wellness Policy Toolkit will address these areas of intersection wherever they appear.We also address the wellness needs of specific populations and lifespan groups,including underserved and vulnerable groups such as chi

56、ldren and older adults,wherever relevant.Stakeholders working in many government functions,industry sectors,and communities can take action across these domains,in both large and small ways,to spearhead bringing wellness to all.Wellness Policy Domains Covered in GWIs Wellness Policy SeriesWellness A

57、ctivities and LifestylesHealthy EatingExpanding access to nutritious diets and encouraging everyone to make healthy eating choices.Physical ActivitySupporting people of all ages to engage in the recommended levels of physical activity to stay healthy.Mental WellnessImproving individual and community

58、 resilience,especially to address stress and loneliness.Traditional&Complementary MedicineIncreasing the safety,quality,and efficacy of T&CM;expanding consumer access;and protecting T&CM resources.Wellness-Supporting EnvironmentsWellness in the Built EnvironmentCreating physical environments that su

59、pport all dimensions of wellness and encourage healthy lifestyles.Wellness at WorkEnabling everyone to work in an environment that improves rather than reduces their health and well-being.Wellness in TourismEnsuring that all tourism is wellness-enhancing for visitors,destinations,and local communiti

60、es.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|9GLOBAL WELLNESS INSTITUTE:WELLNESS POLICY SERIESWellness Policy ToolkitMental WellnessIntroductionAround the world,people are struggling with diverse challenges to their mental well-being.This toolkit presents policies to support mental wellness,a crucial

61、resource that protects us,enhances our holistic health and well-being,and enables us to flourish.Mental wellness policy consists of a set of programs,strategies,and initiatives designed to improve our individual and collective well-being,by addressing key challenges such as stress,loneliness,social

62、isolation,and inequitable access to critical tools and resources.The approach here is to help individuals,families,and communities improve protective factors such as coping skills,healthy lifestyles,strong social support,and purpose and meaning so that they can be resilient and thrive,even when face

63、d with adverse situations and stress factors.We believe that mental wellness policy is vital in two ways:Encouraging individuals and communities to promote mental wellness,by strengthening the resources and support systems necessary to face and overcome lifes challenges.Lessening the suffering that

64、stems from insufficient mental health services,by supporting those at risk for mental health issues,and by introducing evidence-based wellness techniques and practices that can ameliorate symptoms and diversify coping strategies.10|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy SeriesPlenty of resources(

65、e.g.,mental health strategies,programs,frameworks,and toolkits)already exist to help policymakers,healthcare professionals,community care workers*,employers,educators,parents,and individuals to address our widespread and growing mental health challenges.This toolkit is not another mental health poli

66、cy report.It presents mental wellness as a coherent domain of wellness policy that is separate from,and complementary to,mental health policy.In this toolkit,we clarify the distinction between mental health and mental wellness,present key arguments for supporting wellness policies,discuss the most p

67、ressing challenges to our individual and collective mental well-being,and highlight a variety of mental wellness strategies that can be employed by local and national governments,community groups,and other organizations.The toolkit provides users with the information,strategies,and resources necessa

68、ry to take action from different vantage points and to promote mental wellness for all demographic groups.In the final section(see Key Resources),we identify other research reports,guides,and action plans focusing on the specific topics presented in this toolkit.These resources provide information f

69、or further education,give examples for policy actions,and identify organizations for possible collaborations.Who should use the mental wellness toolkit?Mental wellness is a broad policy domain that requires the engagement of diverse stakeholder groups.Government policymakers,community and nonprofit

70、leaders,concerned parents,educators,community care workers,wellness businesses,and employers can all use this toolkit to raise awareness and identify policies and tools to improve mental wellness.Many of the policies and programs discussed here incorporate already established community care and supp

71、ort infrastructure and propose the utilization of existing spaces,services,technologies,and programs.This allows people who are currently living,working,playing,studying,and operating businesses and organizations to become involved in mental wellness promotion in their community.Whether you want to

72、focus on advocacy,awareness,specific programs,private or public services,products,or research,this toolkit will help you to understand key mental wellness challenges,suggest policy solutions,and identify possible areas and entities for collaboration.*“Community care workers”refers broadly to individ

73、uals in a community that provide some form of care,support,or service to others.These can include health professionals,social workers,teachers,social service providers,spiritual leaders,emergency personnel,home health aides and other personal caregivers,and even coaches,barbers,and prison workers.We

74、llness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|11Making the case for wellness policy:Mental wellness.Mental wellness is crucial for our individual and collective well-being.Everyday living,unforeseeable challenges,and systemic and environmental threats can all damage our mental,emotional,and psychological we

75、ll-being.Strong mental wellness can help us to maintain our social connections,engage at work,and feel good about ourselves in spite of facing adverse circumstances or experiencing stress,sadness,or anxiety.GWI defines mental wellness as a key resource that supports our mental health and well-being(

76、see Box A).Mental wellness is vitally important in three ways:1.Mental wellness strengthens our protections against stress,anxiety,and loneliness,thereby fostering resilience.2.Mental wellness practices can help us to manage the symptoms associated with mental health disorders,and sometimes,can help

77、 to protect against their development.1 3.Mental wellness can help us to find meaning and purpose,moving us toward a deeper and richer human experience,which is often described as flourishing.2 Empirical evidence on the benefits of mental wellness practices continues to grow:Various mental wellness

78、practices can alleviate the symptoms of diagnosed mental health disorders,reduce stress,and improve resiliency.3 Practices that enhance our mental wellness are increasingly recognized as strengthening the protective factors supporting our mental health.4 Mental wellness is linked to many positive in

79、dividual outcomes,including better physical health,longevity,social relationships,and work performance.5 In summary,mental wellness allows us to cope with adversity,overcome lifes challenges,and find purpose and meaning.The pathways to mental wellness are personal,subjective,and diverse.Our individu

80、al mental wellness pathways are informed by our background,culture,and life experiences,and they are shaped by our environment and our personal identities.So,mental wellness for a 70-year-old person living independently will differ substantially from that of a 16-year-old student who lives with fami

81、ly.Luckily,we can choose from a variety of approaches or pathways that focus on different emotional,intellectual,social,cultural,and spiritual aspects of mental wellness.6 Research on brain health and lifestyle factors,such as nutrition,exercise,social supports,and environmental conditions,has expan

82、ded our knowledge of how all of these can support mental wellness.When followed,specific mental wellness pathways(e.g.,yoga,meditation,spirituality,hobbies and the arts,travel,connection with friends,time in nature,etc.)can reduce stress,challenge our minds in healthy ways,build greater resilience,a

83、nd improve our mental well-being.GWIs 2020 report,Defining the Mental Wellness Economy,discusses our definition of mental wellness and its importance for well-being,and it offers a framework for the various pathways to mental wellness.These are summarized in Box A.For more information,please see our

84、 full mental wellness report:https:/globalwellnessinstitute.org/industry-research/defining-the-mental-wellness-economy-2020/.Box A:Definition of Mental WellnessGWI defines mental wellness as a dynamic,renewable,and positive resource;an active process that requires initiative and conscious action;and

85、 an internal experience that encompasses multiple dimensions:Mental:How we process,understand,and use information.Emotional:How we manage and express our feelings.Social:How we connect with others.Psychological:How we function or“put the pieces together”to make decisions or do things.Mental wellness

86、 is more than just the absence of mental illness.One might be tempted to think of mental wellness and mental illness as a simple continuum,with severe and chronic mental disorders on one end,and happiness and flourishing on the other end.However,the relationship between the two is more complex,as il

87、lustrated in the figure below.In this construct,the horizontal axis measures mental illness from high to low,while the vertical axis measures mental wellness from languishing to flourishing.About 85%of the worlds population does not have a diagnosed mental illness,but they are not all“mentally well”

88、or thriving,due to pervasive stress,worry,loneliness,and other challenges.At the same time,those who do have a diagnosed mental disorder can still have moderate or positive mental wellness(e.g.,good relationships,feeling happy,or functioning well at a job).Practices that expand our mental wellness a

89、re increasingly recognized as protective factors for our mental health,and as helping to reduce the severity and symptoms of mental illness(alongside conventional treatment regimens).Like mental health promotion,mental wellness encourages behaviors that support our mental health,build resilience,mai

90、ntain healthy lifestyles,and help us flourish.7 Therefore,mental wellness is a resource that can promote mental health.The dual continuum model was adapted by GWI from concepts developed by Keith Tudor(1996)and Corey L.M.Keyes(2002).Source:Global Wellness Institute Dual Continuum Model of Mental Wel

91、lness and Mental IllnessMental Illness SpectrumPathogenicFLOURISHINGLANGUISHINGLow/NoMentalIllnessHighMentalIllnessMental Wellness SpectrumSalutogenicHAPPINESSLIFE SATISFACTIONSTRONG RELATIONSHIPSPERSONAL GROWTHPEAK PERFORMANCESADNESS&WORRYSTRESS&ANXIETYLONELINESSDISENGAGEDDEBILITATED12|Global Welln

92、ess Institute:Wellness Policy SeriesWellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|13Pathways to Mental WellnessMental wellness is multi-dimensional,holistic,and personal.It recognizes the integrated and holistic nature of our health and well-being.The state of our mind affects our body and vice versa.Some

93、times,when our circumstances change,we need to adopt new practices or strategies to handle stress,improve resilience,and deal with adversity.We segment the key strategies for mental wellness into four main pathways:activity and creativity,growth and nourishment,rest and rejuvenation,and connection a

94、nd meaning.Each of these has mind-body and internal-external dimensions(see figure below).Together,they represent a menu of options for pursuing mental wellness.Activity and Creativity:There are countless ways to stimulate our minds,explore our creativity,learn new skills,promote self-efficacy,and e

95、xperience fun and laughter.For some people,it could be reading,cooking,playing a game,or listening to music;for others it could be painting,singing in a choir,or coding.Physical activity also can help us to relax and de-stress.Growth and nourishment:Our minds need to be nourished in order to promote

96、 emotional and intellectual growth.Learning different skills gives us a sense of satisfaction and promotes personal development.On the physical side,a growing body of research has demonstrated the importance of a healthy diet and nutrition for brain health.8 Rest and rejuvenation:Our brains also nee

97、d rest,recovery,and rejuvenation.Sleep is a physical process that is vitally important to our mental wellness;a lack of sleep affects our cognitive functioning and can lead to chronic physical health conditions.Mind-body practices such as yoga,tai chi,qigong,meditation,and breathwork are believed to

98、 promote mental rest and recovery.Connection and Meaning:The social support and feeling of connection we get from relationships at home,at work,and in the wider community play an important role in our mental wellness.Volunteering,civic engagement,spirituality,and arts and cultural activities provide

99、 a sense of purpose and connection and have positive effects on our mental health and well-being.For more information,see:Yeung,O.,and Johnston,K.(2020).Defining the Mental Wellness Economy.Miami,FL:Global Wellness Institute.https:/globalwellnessinstitute.org/industry-research/defining-the-mental-we

100、llness-economy-2020/.Pathways to Mental WellnessMENTAL/INTERNALPHYSICAL/EXTERNALPlay&HobbiesMaking&CreatingLearning&DiscoverySelf-HelpTherapy,Coaching&MentoringCognitive Enhancement&Brain TrainingMeditationMindfulnessReligion,Spirituality&BeliefsAltruism,Gratitude&CompassionNatural MovementFitness&E

101、xerciseSports&Active RecreationDiet&NutritionDrugs&SupplementsSleepMind-body PracticesSensory Experiences(light,sound,aroma,touch)Family&FriendsNature&AnimalsVolunteering&Civic EngagementActivity&CreativityGrowth&NourishmentRest&RejuvenationConnection&MeaningSource:Global Wellness Institute14|Global

102、 Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy SeriesCollectively,we are not mentally well.Wherever we look,financial,physical,and social disruptions from economic shocks,environmental disasters,socio-political conflicts,health concerns,employment pressures,etc.are threatening our well-being.Those who lack men

103、tal wellness resources(even when free of a diagnosed mental health condition)tend to do worse in terms of“physical health outcomes,healthcare utilization,missed days of work,and psychosocial functioning.”9 The COVID-19 pandemic further harmed our collective and individual mental well-being,while sim

104、ultaneously worsening an already significant shortage of care providers and support resources.Many of us now find it harder to cope with everyday challenges:The World Health Organization(WHO)estimates that the pandemic increased worldwide rates of anxiety and depression by over 25%.10 In a recent an

105、nual survey of seventy-one countries,over one-quarter of the 500,000 respondents expressed feelings of distress or struggling.11 Disappointingly,only 38%of respondents considered themselves to be either thriving or succeeding.According to Gallups 2023 Global Emotions Report,over 40%of people globall

106、y said they recently experienced a lot of worry or stress,with more than one-quarter experiencing sadness.12 Stress,worry,sadness,burnout,and loneliness are rising all around the world.13 Unfortunately,our lifestyle and behavior choices(such as poor sleep habits,inadequate exercise,poor nutrition,an

107、d lack of outdoor/nature time)often reduce our mental wellness.Those who are interested in mental wellness practices often face constraints in both resources and access.14 Consequently,a growing number of us lack the necessary internal and external resources to sup-port our psychological well-being.

108、This problem is global and widespread.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|15There are insufficient resources to address our rising mental health crisis.Public health systems throughout the world suffer from a severe lack of mental health professionals,resources,and services.While in a developed

109、country like the United States,mental health proponents worry about having only 105 mental health workers per 100,000 people,the global average is only nine workers per 100,000 people.For African nations,the average is only 2.4 mental health professionals for every 100,000 people.15 Across the world

110、,governments spend very little of their resources on mental health.About 2.1%of median government spending on health services is allocated to mental health services.16 Almost a third of the global population does not have access to any formal mental health assistance at all.17 The growing assaults o

111、n our mental well-being,the shortage of mental health services,and the inadequate focus on mental health promotion have all led to a widespread mental health crisis.In our home,school,and work environments,negative external factors are placing more of us at risk for developing a serious mental healt

112、h issue.18 Indeed,the WHO estimates that one out of eight people struggle with a mental health disorder.19 Moreover,a large 29-nation survey found that depression represents one of the most common issues for both men and women and estimates that one out of every two people will develop a mental heal

113、th disorder before the age of 75.20 Thus,if governments,businesses,and communities fail to take collective action to support our mental well-being,our global mental health crisis will continue unchecked.The cost of mental unwellness is escalating and unsustainable.The number of people with mental he

114、alth issues and poor mental well-being imposes a massive economic and societal burden.For example:Mental health conditions rank first among all causes of the global burden of non-fatal disease and disability,accounting for 32.4%of years lived with disability.21 Anxiety and depression result in the l

115、oss of$1 trillion dollars every year.22 Low engagement at work costs the global economy an estimated$8.8 trillion annually.23 Beyond the economic costs,mental health issues take a staggering toll on people and society in the form of homelessness,poor educational and health outcomes,unemployment,and

116、higher rates of poverty.24 Unless we address the causes of poor mental well-being,our global economy and communities will continue to suffer.Different groups have been sounding the alarm.To address the growing threats to our mental health and well-being,the WHO,national governments,business leaders,

117、academic institutions,community organizations,and employers are increasingly focusing on promoting mental health rather than just prevention and treatment.25 However,these efforts often lack a cohesive strategy.For example,in countries with mental health promotion programs,less than 20%of them have

118、policies focused on increasing awareness and lessening the stigma that deters individuals from seeking assistance.26 This failure to follow a holistic approach makes it difficult to make progress in the fight to support our individual and collective mental well-being.16|Global Wellness Institute:Wel

119、lness Policy SeriesMental wellness policies can ease the mental health crisis.Without adequate levels of resilience,flexible coping mechanisms,and strong support systems,our mental well-being will suffer.By strengthening our internal resources and community support systems,mental wellness policies c

120、an promote better mental health.Also,mental wellness policies can help to ease our mental health crisis by supporting the communities and populations lacking access to mental healthcare resources.Many mental wellness strategies can be incorporated into our daily lives and a lot of these practices ar

121、e free or low cost,so it makes economic sense to support mental wellness.In some places with less access to mental health professionals,both individuals and community care providers already employ mental wellness practices and techniques to help people grappling with mental health issues or risks.Fo

122、r example,mental wellness techniques involving mind-body practices have been used in refugee camps to help overwhelmed care workers heal displaced adults and children who are scarred by trauma.During the pandemic,when the worlds population was gripped by feelings of anxiety and loneliness,government

123、,community,and business webpages provided citizens with resources on mental health promotion,including mind-body practices such as yoga,meditation,and breathwork.Mental wellness policy supports wellness for all.Our collective problem requires collaborative solutions.In this toolkit,we propose a set

124、of cohesive mental wellness policies that focus on promoting education,raising awareness,and improving community support systems.By prioritizing these policies,governments,local communities,business leaders,and the research community can holistically support the mental wellness of all populations.Su

125、mmary of key issues to be addressed by mental wellness policy1.Lack of awareness,knowledge,and understanding are significant barriers to mental wellness.2.Mental wellness resources and opportunities are insufficient all around,but scarcity is especially acute for marginalized and underserved populat

126、ions.3.Many people are suffering from isolation and the loss of social connection.4.Children and youth face serious mental wellness challenges and lack the skills and resources to cope with them.5.All of our health and wellness sectors lack coordinated policies that support mental wellness.Wellness

127、Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|17Three levels of policy action:Mental wellness.Our families,our communities,and other social,economic,and political factors significantly impact our mental well-being.Both protective and adverse factors exist in the various environments in which we live.These can be s

128、egmented into three different levels of policy action(see figure below).Micro-level policies:A host of biological,interpersonal,and cognitive factors(which can include genetics,mental health,age,gender,race and ethnicity,beliefs,coping and communication skills,etc.)will influence our thoughts and be

129、haviors,including our individual mental wellness choices.Micro-level policies that increase awareness,educate individuals about the diverse pathways to mental wellness,improve access,and foster self-esteem can help us to strengthen our mental wellness and protective factors.Meso-level policies:Our i

130、mmediate living environments such as our neighborhoods,workplaces,and schools significantly affect our mental wellness.For example,an adolescent in a supportive family,with a stable source of income,and who learns good communication and coping skills is less likely to experience loneliness and anxie

131、ty.If the very same youth lives in poverty,or under threat of violence,or has little connection to peers,they may be more vulnerable to the daily stresses associated with school and navigating social media.Creating safe and supportive environments will strengthen our ability to deal with stressful l

132、ife events.At this level,policies and programs can help strengthen school and workplace protections and can expand opportunities in our communities to find social connections,cultivate creativity,pursue recreation,or spend time in nature.Macro-level policies:National and local government policies(e.

133、g.,economic,healthcare,housing,labor,human rights,education,social services,etc.)can create instability and hardships that damage mental wellness in individuals,families,and communities.Conversely,a robust health system,good social safety net,political and economic stability,healthy environment,and

134、equitable social system will decrease the threats to our well-being.Addressing these structural and systemic factors must continue as an important macro policy objective.We acknowledge that macro-level policies covering the entire range of public policy actions are vitally important to human health

135、and well-being.In many cases,macro-level policies(such as reducing poverty,stopping armed conflicts,or addressing climate change)will have a significant impact on our mental health and well-being.However,top-down policy approaches require long-term,systemic changes,as well as political will and comp

136、romises,which can be difficult to achieve.In this toolkit,we focus primarily on micro-and meso-level policies,which can be implemented by local communities and businesses and have benefits for people immediately,even while we wait for the glacial progress in solving our long-term macro issues.MESOIm

137、mediate Living Environments&CommunitiesMICROIndividual Practices&BehaviorsMACROSociety-&Economy-Wide FactorsSource:Global Wellness Institute 18|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy SeriesWho can champion policy for mental wellness?Given the diverse environments in which we live and work,improvi

138、ng everyones mental wellness requires the participation of more than just governments.A variety of stakeholders influence whether,how,and where we can pursue our mental wellness.Individuals,schools,helping professionals,governments,local businesses,volunteer associations,faith-based institutions,ind

139、igenous and traditional healers,arts providers,and media personalities can all play a role in strengthening mental wellness.While the nature and scope of the actions will depend upon the actors involved,stakeholders have access to many tools for mental wellness promotion(see Appendix).If you are a n

140、ational/regional government leader or policymaker:To successfully support mental wellness,governments must take a holistic approach.Policies can create spaces that encourage social connection and expand opportunities for people to adopt mental wellness practices.Programs and investment:Both national

141、 and local government policymakers can embed mental wellness promotion into program planning and implementation,especially in the policy domains and functions that are not normally considered part of mental healthcare.For example,governments can directly support mental wellness through urban design,

142、regreening areas,or revitalizing community arts and recreation centers.Local governments and policymakers working in economic development,public health,housing,and education can incorporate mental wellness into their programs.Government social services,including housing and behavioral,youth,and elde

143、r services,can support mental wellness in many ways.Governments can strengthen existing programs and facilitate the introduction of new,innovative projects.They can allocate resources to support activities and programs that increase awareness and create safe and equitable mental wellness opportuniti

144、es.Increasing investment in mental wellness promotion represents another key policy tool.Policymakers can use tax and fiscal incentives to facilitate more mental wellness promotion opportunities and to fund and disseminate evidenced-based research.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|19Advocacy a

145、nd coordination:Advocacy includes increasing interest in mental wellness and promoting regulations and laws to support it.Through advocacy,public officials and agency leaders can change the conversation about mental health and well-being,to raise public interest in mental wellness.Staff functions,pu

146、blic engagements,meetings with local organizations and businesses,and cross-sector agency meetings all represent ideal venues to champion mental wellness.Additionally,governments can ensure that regulations and guidelines governing mental wellness products and services support both mental wellness c

147、onsumers and providers.Local governments can collaborate with civic leaders,nonprofit organizations,businesses,professional associations,and care workers to heighten awareness and broaden access.To bring the benefits of mental wellness to all neighborhoods,local governments can coordinate policies a

148、cross schools,health centers,community centers,and career/job placement centers.They can also lead efforts to involve other stakeholders,especially community care providers,in program implementation.Bringing public and private actors together via working groups,networks,and partnerships can help to

149、defray costs,provide professional expertise,improve capabilities,and widen impact.If you are a local/community leader or nonprofit organization:Our communities can either offer safe places that support our well-being or create adverse conditions that weaken our mental wellness resources and threaten

150、 our mental health.Community-based organizations and leaders all share the responsibility of caring for our neighborhoods.Stakeholders such as volunteer and civic organizations,faith-based groups,arts associations,cultural groups,and health,education,and safety providers are already engaged in comba

151、ting threats to community well-being.They understand their neighborhoods collective needs,challenges,and sources of strength.So,they are well-positioned to provide mental wellness education,skills development,and opportunities.More importantly,they understand the diverse cultures that reside within

152、their communities and know how to successfully target and shape appropriate assistance.Many community leaders and organizations already collaborate to provide care and,thus,have established local networks.Leveraging these ties,these groups can build consensus,identify successful programs,and seek fu

153、nding for mental wellness promotion to support cost-effective,scalable projects and programs in their communities.Community leaders and organizations can support their citizens mental wellness in many ways:Incorporate mental wellness promotion into existing education,health,and support programs.Cond

154、uct educational campaigns to raise interest and awareness,offering events and classes to develop skills.Use their spaces to encourage social connection,recreation,and learning.Foundations already active in the community can provide financial resources for new mental wellness programs.In addition to

155、fiscal incentives and public-private funding partnerships,policies such as challenge grants can encourage innovative community program development.Finally,partnerships among a variety of donors will increase investment and funding for programs and infrastructure.20|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness

156、 Policy SeriesIf you are a business leader or employer:Private companies heavily influence our mental health and well-being and can significantly impact mental wellness policy.Our physical work environments can either increase or decrease stress,environmental hazards,and work-related safety,all of w

157、hich affect our mental well-being.As employers with their own workplace identity,culture,and care programs,companies can directly affect their workers mental wellness.As leaders within their organizations,executives can lead by example,inspiring and empowering managers and workers to strengthen thei

158、r mental wellness.As corporate neighbors,building designers,and environmental stewards,businesses indirectly shape both the protective and adverse factors affecting our daily mental well-being.Businesses and entrepreneurs are also the suppliers of mental wellness goods and services and therefore can

159、 influence not only how we support our mental wellness,but also who possesses the opportunity to participate.For example,businesses have been especially active in launching technology-based innovations that expand access to mental wellness practices at a variety of price points.27 Businesses and ent

160、repreneurs also influence mental wellness-related research and direct future investments,products,and marketing.Companies can partner with the public sector,nonprofits,and community care professionals to improve mental wellness knowledge and opportunities.They can sponsor free or low-cost informatio

161、n campaigns or classes.Also,they can work alongside community partners to preserve outdoor recreation spaces,natural places,and arts and cultural venues.For example:Wellness sector businesses and influencers(e.g.,hospitality,spas,fitness and recreation,consumer products,self-help leaders,entertainme

162、nt,etc.)can responsibly promote evidence-based mental wellness modalities,educating consumers and offering more choices to meet our diverse needs at a variety of price points.Technology companies can disseminate the latest evidence-based and accurate information,create industry-wide safety standards

163、,provide learning opportunities and new products,and increase accessibility and engagement.Private healthcare companies and helping professionals can integrate mental wellness into existing community care infrastructure(e.g.,offering client classes and awareness campaigns,training care professionals

164、,designating mental wellness spaces,etc.).Building and design companies can reimagine existing spaces and craft buildings and public venues with mental wellness-supporting features that help improve mental health and well-being for everyone.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|21If you are a memb

165、er of the media:Many of us first learn about mental wellness techniques and services from news articles,videos,podcasts,or Instagram posts.The media,including social media influencers with their millions of followers,can highlight low-cost opportunities,showcase local venues and green spaces,and pro

166、mote social and cultural events.Through well-researched and informed content,media groups can also help us to understand the confusing array of mental wellness products,services,and techniques that exist in the marketplace.The media and influencers also have a responsibility to provide evidenced-bas

167、ed information,so that we can make well-informed choices as individuals and as a community.Media groups must ensure that what they showcase enhances mental wellness,rather than just hyping the latest fad.The constantly shifting landscape of mental wellness practices,products,and services makes highl

168、ighting evidence-based practices and safe options challenging.However,positive media involvement represents a low-cost way to educate a wide audience about the benefits of mental wellness practices and products.To encourage participation,media groups can partner with local governments,community lead

169、ers,academic institutions,and nonprofit organizations.If you are a member of the research community:The research community can continue to help to identify safe,cost-effective mental wellness practices.Academic and research organizations,including government and nonprofit organizations,can confirm t

170、he safety and effectiveness of various mental wellness modalities and even create new products and services.Researchers can help us to understand how we can use our different environments(homes,workplaces,and community spaces)to enhance our mental well-being.Research can inform the local governments

171、,community groups,and nonprofits who need to make choices on program design and implementation within limited budgets.Researchers can engage in advocacy,disseminating findings to raise public awareness and educate the media.Finally,they can collaborate with other community stakeholders to gather rel

172、evant data and identify critical future research needs.22|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy SeriesIf you are a helping or healthcare professional:As part of a nations health system,helping and healthcare professionals can have a significant impact on a populations knowledge and acceptance of

173、 mental wellness principles and practices.For example,these professionals can promote mental wellness techniques and practices as complementary and alternative treatments for mental and physical health issues,as well as important preventative tools.They can disseminate informational resources to pat

174、ients and provide training opportunities at their offices.Also,as trusted community members,they can conduct public outreach and advocacy to raise awareness and knowledge.Mental and physical healthcare professionals can collaborate across established networks and programming to highlight current res

175、earch and practices.They also can take the lead in building consensus,identifying evidenced-based techniques,and disseminating evidence-based practices to the media and the public.Finally,to promote the adoption of more mental wellness principles,professional associations and leading academics can p

176、rovide continuing education opportunities to mental and physical healthcare professionals.Policy actions for mental wellness.To promote mental wellness,we need policies that address the common barriers experienced across nations and cultures,including lack of awareness and interest,inadequate access

177、 to opportunities,and declining social support.Improving mental wellness requires collaborative actions by multiple players in order to influence individual behaviors,families and communities,and larger social and national environments.In this toolkit,we outline how a variety of stakeholders can des

178、ign,implement,and support mental wellness policies.We propose policies that seek to increase awareness and knowledge,provide more opportunities to promote mental wellness,and encourage stakeholder engagement and collaboration.The following sections discuss these objectives and provide concrete polic

179、y actions.For each section,we describe the issue or problem it is trying to address,elaborate on possible policy actions,and provide a list of sample activities.To increase the chance of success,we recommend a few guiding principles across all the policy actions:Consider the culture of the targeted

180、groups,Foster collaboration among stakeholders,and Engage the local community in planning,policy development,and implementation.The Key Resources section,at the end of this report,provides readers with other detailed resources on policies,strategies,case studies,and research evidence related to ment

181、al wellness and mental health promotion.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|23Summary of key policy objectives and actions:Mental wellnessPOLICY OBJECTIVESACTIONS1Improve mental wellness literacy.Action 1:Improve knowledge and understanding of mental wellness to nudge its adoption by individuals

182、 and communities.1.1.Improve individual knowledge of mental wellness pathways and practices.1.2.Engage and support all community stakeholders in mental wellness education and promotion.1.3.Strengthen research,standards,and guidelines on mental wellness modalities,products,and services.2Increase acce

183、ss to activities and spaces that promote mental wellness.Action 2:Leverage community infrastructure,nature,arts/culture,and technology to expand access to mental wellness,especially for underserved groups.2.1.Utilize existing spaces to support mental wellness.2.2.Widen access to nature.2.3.Increase

184、engagement with arts and culture.2.4.Foster equitable access to mental wellness spaces and activities.2.5.Empower communities to design and deliver their own mental wellness activities.2.6.Use technology responsibly to increase access to mental wellness modalities.3Create more socially connected com

185、munities.Action 3:Strengthen social connections through programs,social prescribing,built environment,and technology.3.1.Raise awareness of the dangers and costs of loneliness.3.2.Prioritize social support for vulnerable and marginalized groups.3.3.Strengthen connections through social,cultural,and

186、arts engagement programs.3.4.Use the built environment to connect people and foster social interaction.3.5.Utilize digital infrastructure to connect people and foster social interaction.3.6.Leverage existing collaboration and community care resources.4Promote mental wellness among children and youth

187、Action 4:Teach coping skills to children and youth and build social networks to improve their mental resilience.4.1.Help parents and adult caregivers to create a supportive environment for mental health and well-being.4.2.Use school-based programs to build mental wellness skills.4.3.Support communit

188、y activities that engage,connect,and empower children and youth.4.4.Use technology carefully to support youth mental wellness and provide social connections in safe online environments.5Integrate mental wellness-supporting policies into healthcare and other wellness sectors.Action 5:Embed mental wel

189、lness activities across many other wellness sectors and domains to support holistic mental well-being.5.1.Incorporate mental wellness into the health system.5.2.Reshape our built environments to support mental wellness.5.3.Prioritize mental wellness at work.5.4.Encourage physical activity for mental

190、 wellness.5.5.Promote healthy eating for mental wellness.24|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy SeriesWellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|25THE ISSUELack of awareness,knowledge,and understanding are significant barriers to mental wellness.While the wellness community increasingly embraces

191、and champions mental wellness,a significant share of the worlds population is not aware of what mental wellness is,its importance,and how to support it.Some people associate mental wellness practices with wealth and privilege,or they may view it as something that they lack the time or money to pursu

192、e.Others may feel that mental wellness is solely a vacation activity and not something for daily practice.Incomplete or false information promoted by the media and some mental wellness providers can lead to confusion and misunderstanding.Consequently,many people do not realize that there are several

193、 pathways to mental wellness that do not require buying a wellness service or product(e.g.,dancing at home,spending time with friends,volunteering,walking).There are also pervasive knowledge gaps in mental wellness among community groups and leaders from educational professionals,community care orga

194、nizations,and religious centers,to local government and business leaders.Even some medical and social care professionals,who have some awareness of existing mental wellness practices,may be confused about their effectiveness and safety,thereby hampering dissemination and adoption.For some people,the

195、 stigma around mental health prevents any focus on this aspect of our well-being,including the ways to promote it.More than half of respondents to a 2023 global well-being survey felt that society is judgmental towards people with lower mental well-being,while 43%did not think it is acceptable to ta

196、lk about mental health issues.Almost half of the men surveyed felt that it is harder for men to talk about their mental health.28Improve Mental Wellness Literacy126|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy SeriesMore people need to understand mental wellness,its benefits,and how to support it.Incre

197、asing our knowledge and skills our mental wellness literacy will nudge more people to prioritize mental wellness.Many kinds of policies can help to increase awareness and understanding of mental wellness and can introduce the diverse mental wellness pathways to individuals and communities.THE ACTION

198、Improve knowledge and understanding of mental wellness to nudge its adoption by individuals and communities.Action 1.1 Improve individual knowledge of mental wellness pathways and practices.Action 1.2 Engage and support all community stakeholders in mental wellness education and promotion.Action 1.3

199、 Strengthen research,standards,and guidelines on mental wellness modalities,products,and services.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|271.1:Improve individual knowledge of mental wellness pathways and practices.Awareness building.Given the growing interest in mental health promotion,stakeholders

200、 have the perfect opportunity to introduce mental wellness and its pathways to more people.Framing mental wellness as a beneficial resource can help to diminish the stigma often associated with mental health,thereby encouraging more people to embrace mental wellness practices.Policies that raise awa

201、reness can also teach people how to recognize when they,their loved ones,coworkers,or employees are experiencing poor mental wellness.This allows families,workplaces,and neighborhoods to support everyone in the community.One example of how to raise awareness is the Mental Health First Aid program,an

202、 Australian-born education and training program that has spread to 25 countries and has trained over 6 million people to support mental health in their communities.Similar to physical first aid training,the program teaches community members practical skills on how to proactively recognize,respond to

203、,and support someone experiencing a mental health problem,until appropriate professional help can be received.This kind of training improves community-wide mental health literacy and capacity,helps to reduce stigma,and builds a more compassionate and informed society that is equipped to understand m

204、ental health and wellness needs.There are many ways to introduce mental wellness practices and the pathways to a broad audience,including print,video,and digital platforms;in-person trainings;school programs;and events.If public institutions raise mental wellness awareness,more populations will feel

205、 comfortable discussing their needs and the options for promoting their mental well-being.National and local government agencies can start a public conversation about mental wellness and encourage policymakers to incorporate information and resources into existing information programs.For example,si

206、nce 2019,the United Kingdoms National Health Service has run a publicly funded“Every Mind Matters”campaign to build adults literacy on mental well-being issues and strategies.Businesses,community organizations,educators,and health professionals can bring mental wellness to the publics attention in m

207、any ways via media campaigns,promotional events,resource materials,community challenges,and support groups.Businesses can educate their employees about mental wellness,using online resources,apps,or“lunch and learn”sessions to introduce the pathways and mental wellness practices.Also,public sector e

208、ducation and outreach programs can“influence the influencers,”steering social media personalities already discussing mental health issues towards evidence-based information on mental wellness pathways.For example,in the United States,Harvards T.H.Chan School of Public Health began engaging with soci

209、al media influencers,including some mental health professionals,who post online about mental health and well-being.The Chan School has invited influencers who provide mental well-being advice to visit with academics and public health experts,in order to learn about effective and evidence-based ways

210、to improve mental well-being so that they can inform their diverse audiences.By framing mental wellness as a resource,we can diminish mental health stigma and encourage more people to embrace mental wellness practices.28|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy SeriesBox 1a:A growing global discour

211、se about happiness and well-beingIn recent years,the importance of“happiness”has proliferated in popular culture and consumer mindsets,fueled by the media,influencers and celebrities,self-help books,podcasts,and more.The measurement of“happiness”has also received significant attention in public poli

212、cy circles and in popular media,most notably from the annual United Nations World Happiness Report.29 Governments and the media eagerly await the annual rankings of the worlds“happiest countries.”Gallup produces a variety of global and national reports rating peoples well-being,emotions,and social c

213、onnections30,while the Global Mind Project ranks countries by mental well-being.31.These developments have brought increased attention to the importance of subjective well-being and happiness in policymaking.They have also fueled the call to reassess the goals of government policymaking and turn gov

214、ernments away from Gross Domestic Product(GDP)as the dominant measure of human progress and societal achievements.32 Starting in the 1970s,Bhutan has been a trailblazer in promoting the well-being of its population over material wealth,and it was the first country to promote happiness as a national

215、policy(using its“Gross National Happiness”concept).Other countries,including Canada,Costa Rica,New Zealand,Finland,Ireland,and Scotland,have adopted“well-being budgeting”and are starting to prioritize well-being as a key measure of their nations prosperity.33 Some nations,including Ecuador,Tunisia,I

216、ndia,and the United Arab Emirates,have been motivated to create ministers of happiness at the national and state levels.While the success of measuring and targeting happiness and well-being has been mixed,this focus on improving more than the size of a nations GDP has helped to raise awareness and i

217、nterest in the importance of promoting our subjective well-being.Around the world,more people are pondering whether we have a sense of purpose or meaning,feel connected,can pursue our interests,or can experience joy and rejuvenation.34 Clearly,now is the right time to introduce the concepts and prac

218、tices of mental wellness to governments,local communities,and the public.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|29Training.Policies should emphasize training for individuals in the community to learn about specific ways to promote mental wellness.Many small and volunteer organizations lack the reso

219、urces and capacity to run their own education programs.However,government agencies,local businesses,and community centers can provide space and structured trainings to help individuals learn about techniques and practices.School settings,government properties,public squares,local gyms,or our homes a

220、re all places where people can learn how to engage in mental wellness.Offerings could include in-person and online lectures on breathwork,meditation,or mindful movement.Mental wellness can also be incorporated into existing programs that target behavior and lifestyle changes,highlighting different m

221、ental wellness pathways,community resources,opportunities,and venues.Community and social service organizations,national assistance programs,and international agencies currently provide psycho-social education on a range of topics,from nutrition to physical health and safety,to life-skills training.

222、Any of these existing programs can incorporate information on how to support mental wellness.Indeed,for some individuals receiving social assistance,mental wellness information would be very helpful.For example,the WHOs Self-Help Plus course aims to reduce stress through teaching coping skills.The c

223、ourse materials,which include both audio and written resources,can be taught by trained volunteers to large groups.While often used with refugee populations,this course can be used to help any adult learn how to relax and rejuvenate.Mental wellness literacy programs can incorporate a variety of tool

224、s and methods.For example,Western Australias Act Belong Commit program focuses on getting people to commit to behavioral change to support mental wellness,by promoting physical,social,and intellectual activities.The program spreads its message and fosters engagement via different methods,including o

225、nline resources,and training teachers at area schools.30|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy SeriesBox 1b:Improving mental wellness literacy for all populationsUnderserved and marginalized populations(e.g.,socioeconomically disadvantaged,minority and ethnic communities,physically isolated,forc

226、ibly displaced,people with disabilities,aging individuals)disproportionally lack mental wellness education resources and training.To reach these groups,there are a variety of ways to disseminate information on mental wellness,including culturally relevant,translatable self-help guides,online trainin

227、g,fact sheets,webinars,media campaigns,after school and parenting classes,etc.Even when education opportunities are present,some groups may still not be interested in incorporating mental wellness into their lives because they feel that wellness practices are not for them.Others might think that the

228、y lack the ability or resources to pursue various mental wellness pathways.Moreover,in some minority and ethnic populations,individuals still view mental health discussions as taboo.In those communities where discussions about mental health and well-being are more challenging,efforts can start with

229、conversations that help to normalize the concept of mental wellness.Framing discussions about increasing mental well-being and resilience,or reducing stress,rather than about mental health,may make it easier to encourage interest in mental wellness and the adoption of various mental wellness pathway

230、s.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|311.2:Engage and support all community stakeholders in mental wellness education and promotion.Improving mental wellness literacy at the community level boosts our“wellness ecosystem”and enhances our collective mental well-being.Community awareness programs

231、can encourage all local stakeholders to become advocates for mental wellness.Policies designed to raise specific stakeholder awareness can take many forms(see Box 1c).For example,policies focusing on providing information to community organizations and leaders through established channels,such as re

232、gular public health programming,represent a cost-effective way to raise awareness in more neighborhoods.Webinars,seminars,online resource materials,and outreach via existing partnerships with local business organizations can elevate mental wellness literacy among business leaders.Additionally,mental

233、 wellness education programs can target community care professionals,(e.g.,public health professionals,first responders,social workers,spiritual leaders)and other care providers(e.g.,educators,parents,volunteer organizations)in order to nudge them to incorporate mental wellness into both their profe

234、ssional and personal lives.Finally,mental wellness literacy programs specifically tailored to mental health professionals will encourage wider adoption of mental wellness techniques and practices.Educating more mental healthcare professionals provides additional complementary and alternative tools t

235、o support clients facing mental health challenges.Facilitating ongoing dialogues among stakeholders will allow policymakers to tailor programs,events,and resources to meet their communitys cultural,structural,and budgetary needs.For example,recognizing the importance of engaging different groups,the

236、 government of Singapore is partnering with social service agencies,researchers,and community leaders to craft and implement its national strategy for mental well-being.35 Targeted programs can teach the stakeholders who develop and maintain public spaces(e.g.,transport officials,city planners,infra

237、structure developers,local politicians)about mental wellness.Also,some initiatives can designate local community mental wellness champions such as media personalities,business owners,celebrities,and neighborhood leaders to participate in awareness campaigns.Finally,encouraging collaborations among s

238、tudios,gyms,art centers,and local business to highlight mental wellness will raise interest and knowledge.The following table provides examples of actions that can raise awareness among specific stakeholder groups at the community level.Ongoing dialogues among stakeholders help to tailor actions to

239、meet a communitys cultural,structural,and budgetary needs.32|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy SeriesBox 1c:A Community-Wide Approach to Mental Wellness LiteracyTARGET GROUPSTRATEGIES/INITIATIVESOUTCOMESCommunity Organizations Include mental pathways information in existing community campaig

240、ns.Target information dissemination toward community care groups.Offer free or low-cost training to community leaders.Increased awareness and interest in mental wellness by community organizations and civic leaders.Businesses Provide training to employees.Facilitate collaborative activities to raise

241、 awareness.Offer educational resources on mental wellness pathways.Private businesses understand the benefits of mental wellness for employees and the community.Care Providers Provide free and low-cost online resources.Create mental wellness psychoeducation programs and skills training for care prof

242、essionals.More community care providers incorporate mental wellness into their professional and personal lives.Mental Health Professionals Offer mental wellness continuing education programs to helping professionals.Disseminate information on the latest empirical evidence supporting the incorporatio

243、n of mental wellness techniques to treat mental health issues.More mental healthcare providers have additional tools to support clients facing mental health challenges.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|331.3:Strengthen research,standards,and guidelines on mental wellness modalities,products,an

244、d services.Mental wellness literacy also means having knowledge about safe and effective mental wellness techniques and practices.Some practices have strong evidence to support their adoption.For example,when enough research indicated that meditation and mindfulness techniques improve health and sym

245、ptoms of mental disorders,public and private healthcare systems and professionals(e.g.,U.K.s National Health Service,Mayo Clinic)started to incorporate them into patient treatment plans.36 However,from supplements to psychedelics,and from sleep rings to brain training,many consumers still face a diz

246、zying array of options without enough evidence to make informed choices.Across the board,we need more empirical evidence on the efficacy and safety of the mental wellness products and services that are being promoted in the marketplace and by influencers.Some countries are working on guidance and ar

247、e starting to outline regulatory structures for some mental wellness products that show promise for addressing stress and anxiety.For example,the U.S.Federal Government has recently shifted its stance on cannabis,moving it closer to wider acceptability for medical use;however,there still is not a co

248、nsensus on the potential harmful effects of this substance.Others,such as Jamaica,Portugal,Australia,and South Africa have established legal guidelines for the use of certain psychedelics to help with these symptoms.However,research,regulatory guidelines,and certification systems continue to lag beh

249、ind market offerings.For example,the mental wellness sector contains a large number of functional foods and beverages,supplements,herbal remedies,tonics,and other services that claim to enhance mental wellness.These nutraceutical and botanical products often lack clear evidence to support them,and e

250、xisting standards or regulations are unclear and inadequate.37 Governments can support research to increase the knowledge and understanding of these offerings through grants and tax incentives to researchers,universities,and nonprofits.Governments and research organizations should take the lead on d

251、isseminating the latest information on effective mental wellness practices via public data bases,public education campaigns,webinars,and conferences.34|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy SeriesSample policies to improve mental wellness literacy.Conduct public awareness campaigns,free awarenes

252、s weekends,seminars,workshops,and trainings to provide mental wellness education and skills development.Incorporate mental wellness education into mental health awareness training programs,such as Mental Health First Aid.Provide free and low-cost awareness and skills training to mental health and ed

253、ucation professionals,and other community care providers.Leverage existing community campaigns,(e.g.,mental health month,older adult awareness weeks)to highlight the importance of mental wellness.Work with community partners to offer free/low-cost mental wellness opportunities for at-risk population

254、s.Perform outreach to urban planners,civil engineers,architects,etc.to introduce the relationship between mental wellness and the built environment.Provide resources to them via free webinars,workshops,and online resources.Engage journalists,media personalities,and social media influencers to raise

255、awareness and understanding of the diversity of mental wellness pathways and to promote dissemination of evidence-based mental wellness techniques.Promote empirical research and accredited sources to review wellness products and services.Build partnerships among policymakers,mental wellness provider

256、s,and the research community to create guidelines or standards for specific mental wellness practices,products,or services.This is a sample of policies that can be used to encourage mental wellness,but not an exhaustive list.Please see Key Resources,at the end of this report,for more details on poli

257、cies,strategies,case studies,and research evidence related to mental wellness and mental health promotion.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|35THE ISSUEMental wellness resources and opportunities are insufficient all around,but scarcity is especially acute for marginalized and underserved popul

258、ations.As more individuals begin to understand and seek mental wellness,increasing access and opportunities becomes an even more pressing issue.In a recent global survey,an overwhelming majority(78%)of respondents indicated that they are focusing on their mental well-being.38 Unfortunately,whether d

259、ue to costs,safety concerns,lack of options,or transport issues,many people do not have access to spaces and activities that support their mental wellness.Worse,marginalized and at-risk communities face adverse situations that lead to greater stress,depression,anxiety,and trauma.39 Studies have show

260、n that members of these populations are more likely to experience mental health issues but lack effective coping mechanisms.40 For example:Women in many communities face gender discrimination,violence,and other socio-economic challenges that threaten their mental well-being.Older adults experience s

261、ocial loss and a decline of physical functioning,leading to high rates of loneliness and depression,while having reduced ability to access mental wellness activities.41 Increase Access to Activities and Spaces that Promote Mental Wellness236|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy Series Socially

262、marginalized and at-risk groups(e.g.,ethnic and racial minorities,women,people who identify as LBGTQ+,people with disabilities)face bias and feel less safe in parks and green spaces.42 People with disabilities lack inclusive spaces to practice mental wellness and to access community activities and p

263、rivate sector wellness opportunities.Lower income populations,refugees,and the unhoused,as well as racial and ethnic minorities,face greater stress and threats to their safety,and are more likely to grapple with mental health issues.43 Mental wellness policies should widen access to mental wellness

264、activities for everyone,especially those whose well-being is most at risk.Mental wellness policies should widen access for everyone.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|37Government policy can help to scale programs and provide spaces and avenues to increase equitable and affordable access to men

265、tal wellness activities.However,to be successful,stakeholders must widen their perspectives on who needs mental wellness,and how and where to promote it.Policies can increase community resources and opportunities,enhance environments and spaces,and bolster ongoing community efforts to promote mental

266、 wellness.Recognizing that challenges and needs vary from one individual/group to another,policies should leverage community care professionals and technological resources to target specific populations.Governments,nonprofits,and private sector organizations should focus on projects that provide acc

267、essible,low-cost,and culturally relevant options.When creating programming,policymakers should incorporate the entire communitys viewpoints during every policy phase,from needs identification and planning through implementation and assessment.Wellness sector businesses and entrepreneurs can also inc

268、rease access by creating more affordable products and services to meet peoples diverse needs.THE ACTIONLeverage community infrastructure,nature,arts and culture,and technology to expand access to mental wellness,especially for underserved groups.Action 2.1 Utilize existing spaces to support mental w

269、ellness.Action 2.2 Widen access to nature.Action 2.3 Increase engagement with arts and culture.Action 2.4 Foster equitable access to mental wellness spaces and activities.Action 2.5 Empower communities to design and deliver their own mental wellness activities.Action 2.6 Use technology responsibly t

270、o increase access to mental wellness modalities.38|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy Series2.1:Utilize existing spaces to support mental wellness.Mental wellness-supporting activities can occur in diverse spaces that already exist across most communities and neighborhoods,including public pa

271、rks and green areas,fitness spaces,and arts/cultural venues.Policies should prioritize the creation and maintenance of easily accessible,safe neighborhood places for these kinds of activities.Stakeholders can employ creative ways to increase access to mental wellness practices and activities.For exa

272、mple:Community organizations and cultural institutions can host group meditation and yoga opportunities for their communities.For example,community yoga is offered in many large museums and galleries across North America and Western Europe.Community recreation/fitness and religious centers can offer

273、 group dance classes,while public parks can organize adventure walks.Local volunteering programs can become involved in urban beautification projects,such as the Urban Garden Experience in Houston,and Indias Mumbai Beautification Plan.When women have limited access to places to practice meditation a

274、nd mindful movement(due to cultural or religious restrictions),local providers are developing women-only spaces.For example,some providers in Spain offer Muslim women dedicated yoga and meditation venues and retreats.Some temporary housing facilities,such as Wesley Housing in the Washington,DC,metro

275、 region,are providing residents with yoga and meditation training.Assisted living facilities,schools,offices/workplaces,and shelters are also possible places for people to connect safely and enjoy nature,the arts,and other mental wellness-supporting activities.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness

276、|392.2:Widen access to nature.Nature plays a crucial role in mental wellness.Expanding everyones access to nature is a low-cost way to support community mental wellness.Green spaces can be large or small:a national park,a regional nature preserve,a small urban pocket park,a community garden,hiking t

277、rails,greenways,museum grounds,and even tree-lined streets.They can help to lessen anxiety,stress,and symptoms of depression and trauma,while promoting mental well-being.44 Recognizing this,the State of California is implementing a multi-faceted Outdoors for All plan to widen access.The plan include

278、s offering more accessible trails,greater green spaces in resource-poor communities,and free or low-cost park entry for residents.In spite of these types of efforts,forces all around the world continue to reduce our access to nature driven by urbanization and the privatization of public spaces for t

279、ourism,commerce,and other private/restricted use.Physical disabilities,lack of transport,discrimination,or fear of violence can further reduce peoples access to and usage of these shrinking green spaces.Research has shown that in urban areas,people who live in poorer neighborhoods,women,ethnic and r

280、acial minorities,and people who identify as LGBTQ+have significantly less access to green areas.45 Wellness policies should aim to make green spaces more accessible in every community.This entails working with developers,city planners,community advocates,and local law enforcement to ensure that park

281、s and green spaces are equally accessible and welcoming to all.In rural areas,communities should work with local and national governments to maintain natural areas with affordable transport options to them.In urban areas,all neighborhoods should have safe parks and green spaces that are accessible t

282、o all.Sample policies to widen access nature include:Creating more parks,supporting gardening cooperatives,and planting trees and flowers in urban areas and unused neighborhood spaces.Enhancing green spaces and plantings in local schools,community centers,healthcare facilities,arts/cultural venues,a

283、nd sports venues.Following universal design principles to support people with disabilities in all parks and green spaces.Improving transport to green spaces,as well as adding greenery at bus stops and transit stations.Improving park maintenance and park safety,particularly for women,older individual

284、s,and minority groups.Green spaces lessen anxiety,stress,and symptoms of depression and trauma,while promoting mental well-being.40|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy Series2.3:Increase engagement with arts and culture.Arts and community organizations,nonprofits,local governments,and philanth

285、ropically minded businesses can use arts and cultural programming to widen access to mental wellness opportunities.Many communities currently offer some form of arts or cultural engagement programs,including:Performing arts:Music,dance,film,theater.Visual arts:Painting,sculpture,photography.Culture:

286、Museums,galleries,festivals,concerts.Museums,arts and cultural venues,group classes,and performances provide participants with chances for creativity,activity,and rejuvenation.There is a robust and growing body of evidence that arts and culture are beneficial for our mental well-being in many ways:S

287、cientific studies suggest that arts engagement positively impacts our mental health and well-being,reduces stress,alleviates symptoms of depression,and increases our social supports,while protecting against mental health disorders and cognitive decline.46 The latest neuroscience finds that just view

288、ing art and engaging in multisensory experiences(like attending a music or dance performance)can significantly impact our mood and combat symptoms associated with stress.47 Studies in the United Kingdom and the United States indicate that arts and cultural programs can decrease loneliness and sympto

289、ms of depression in both youth and older adults.48 Arts programs have also helped refugees,veterans,and victims of violence to reduce symptoms of trauma including PTSD and depression.49Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|41Unfortunately,only a small percentage of people currently engage in the a

290、rts.For example,in the United Kingdom,only about 10%of adults regularly participate in the performing or visual arts,with only a slightly larger percentage engaging in cultural arts activities.50 Lack of income,transportation barriers,lack of available venues and resources,and health issues can all

291、make it impossible for countless people to attend arts and cultural events.Many racial and ethnic minorities simply do not have enough access,and the same goes for rural and low-income communities.Stakeholders should adopt policies to deliver arts and cultural programming to more members of the comm

292、unity,via community arts festivals,classes,social prescription programs(see Box 2a),and other programming.There are good examples of different approaches across many countries:El Sistema,which originated in Venezuela before spreading to over 400 communities across Europe,focuses on bringing music tr

293、aining to young people,particularly those from a lower socio-economic status.51 Mens Sheds,in Scotland and Australia,is a community crafting program that blends,woodworking,pottery,and social activities to help participants,relax,find connection and satisfaction in learning new skills.Online art pro

294、grams in the United States have helped rural veterans struggling with symptoms of mental health disorders.52 In the United Kingdom,the Arts on Prescription program which is a partnership among community arts organizations,volunteers,and physicians connects people to local arts activities and events.

295、Sing for Hope Pianos,a nonprofit program originating in New York City,brings music and visual arts to the public by placing pianos decorated by local artists in outdoor public spaces in multiple cities across the world.Priority should be given to people who face barriers to participating in arts and

296、 culture,whether due to physical,geographic,or financial constraints.For those populations lacking access to a museum,arts performances,or arts classes,introducing a small-scale program can make a notable difference.When targeting these populations,providing some programming that is free,subsidized,

297、or lower cost and located near public transport will have more impact.For example,the Sweet Water Foundation in Chicago,Illinois has partnered to turn a 12-acre,abandoned city lot into a community space for hobbies(including gardening spaces,art-making workshops,and a woodshop),in order to bring men

298、tal wellness opportunities to a wide cross-section of neighborhood residents.Financial assistance can facilitate the creation of inexpensive and scalable programs crucial for reaching underserved populations.Yet,insufficient funding for arts and cultural programming remains a significant barrier for

299、 many communities around the world.Stakeholders should seek out art donor funding for public art and mural programs,free music performances,mental wellness days at museums,or meditation training at religious centers.Partnerships among private businesses,nonprofit organizations,and foundations will i

300、ncrease resources for programs and infrastructure development.In addition to fiscal incentives and public-private funding partnerships,policies like challenge grants can encourage innovative community program development.42|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy SeriesBox 2a:Social prescribing to

301、 support mental wellnessOriginating in the United Kingdom in the 1980s,and now utilized in more than a dozen countries(including Portugal,Sweden,Korea,Australia,and China),social prescribing helps people facing loneliness,depression,and health issues to connect with diverse activities,resources,and

302、services within their community.53 Health professionals provide prescriptions or referrals for activities offered by the public sector,nonprofits,or volunteers.54 Volunteers or employees called“link workers”or“well-being coaches/coordinators”connect individuals to community-based activities that wil

303、l support their specific physical,social,emotional,or other health and wellness needs.Activities could include volunteering,time in nature,group mindful movement,fitness centers,arts activities,museum visits,or a walking group.Some social prescription programs help people recover from a specific med

304、ical issue,while others focus more on prevention and mental health promotion.In the United States,social prescribing typically addresses basic care needs such as food,housing,and financial and employment assistance.The State of Massachusetts offers a small art prescribing program,CultureRX,that is w

305、itnessing positive results.55 In other nations,such as Singapore,Japan,China,and the United Kingdom,social prescribing programs target specific populations or social and mental well-being issues.For example,in the United Kingdom,the National Academy of Social Prescribing specifically focuses on acti

306、vities promoting mental health and well-being.Its Arts on Prescription program,a partnership among community arts organizations,volunteers,and physicians,directs social workers to connect prescription holders to local arts activities and events.In Japan,China,and South Korea,social prescription prog

307、rams target the older adult population,connecting them to group hobbies and activities such as gardening,music,and crafts.While scarce evidence exists on the benefits and cost effectiveness of social prescribing,an increasing number of nations report positive trends,and others are exploring social p

308、rescribing as a way to increase community connection and social support.56 For social prescribing programs to work,the health sector must collaborate with a host of organizations,including local governments,social workers,insurance companies,volunteer groups,local nonprofits,and even businesses.Some

309、 governments have incorporated social prescriptions into existing national health programs.For example,Chinas social prescription program,which began with 40 grassroots organizations,is now under the umbrella of the Healthy China Action Plan.In the Netherlands,public Wellness Centres,already part of

310、 the nations social health insurance program,implement their nations“Wellbeing on Prescription”program.57Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|432.4:Foster equitable access to mental wellness spaces and activities.Everyone possesses their own unique cultural history and set of identities,and we ex

311、ist in different environments with diverse challenges.Global minority populations often defined by ethnic and cultural background,race,gender identification,religious affiliation,disability status,and other factors can face greater mental health challenges.58 However,as discussed elsewhere in this s

312、ection,these at-risk and excluded populations also have fewer options or opportunities to pursue their mental wellness,including less access to nature and green spaces,as well as fewer opportunities for arts and cultural engagement.To counter this unequal access to mental wellness spaces and practic

313、es,policies and programs should focus on overcoming the barriers faced by specific populations such as the ones identified above.Programs can engage entities already servicing these groups.For example,local programs could fund or organize meditation offerings in venues such as government offices in

314、rural areas,low-income schools,senior residences,and shelters for the unhoused.Also,stakeholders can support programs that incorporate different cultural norms,languages,and religious beliefs.For example,in Guatemala,the community-led Buena Semilla Womens Circle program targets adolescent girls in r

315、emote indigenous communities.The successful program promotes mental wellness and stress reduction,offering social support to women and adolescent girls.Choosing programs that prioritize social inclusion and community participation can help to bring the benefit of mental wellness techniques and pract

316、ices to the currently underserved.In Zimbabwe,the Friendship Benches program,staffed by trained volunteers who provide conversation,information,and emotional support,began as an innovative way to reach more people with mental health issues.Different versions of bench programs to help promote mental

317、health and well-being have spread to other nations around the world,including Guyana,the United Kingdom,and the United States.In New York City,people coping with symptoms of depression and anxiety can visit with trained peers on friendship benches.In Washington,DC,a new program has trained older adu

318、lts in the basics of talk therapy and empathetic listening to occupy benches near senior wellness and community centers.Other bench programs aim to provide social support and foster conversations.Canadas“Yellow is for Hello”program uses bright yellow benches for awareness-building at secondary and p

319、ost-secondary schools,while in the United Sates,children can find“buddy benches”at their school playgrounds.Other examples of policies for underserved populations include:Offering programming and activities in public spaces that are accessible to people with disabilities and requiring transport and

320、private sector services to provide inclusive offerings for this population.Stakeholders can support programs that incorporate different cultural norms,languages,and religious beliefs.44|Global Wellness Institute:Wellness Policy Series Engaging volunteer,government,and community care organizations to

321、 provide group mental wellness programming and transport for older adults.Providing safe and free mental wellness opportunities at local community centers,schools,public buildings,and outdoor spaces in lower income neighborhoods.Engaging spiritual organizations,indigenous leaders,local civic groups,

322、and education and health professionals in hosting recurring mental wellness activities for rural populations.Collaborating with community leaders and volunteer organizations to offer culturally relevant and safe mindful movement activities at community festivals,cultural centers,and advocacy events

323、targeting specific racial and ethnic minorities.2.5:Empower communities to design and deliver their own mental wellness activities.Strengthening a communitys care structure,social supports,and resources bolsters everyones mental wellness.Wellness policies should support the community organizations,b

324、usinesses,and groups currently promoting mental health and well-being.Local governments can provide funding and tax incentives,showcase mental wellness providers,and improve neighborhood transport.An important priority is to engage communities at the grassroots level to identify obstacles,exchange i

325、deas,and create programing.Including targeted populations in the process will result in culturally relevant policies,and will provide the programs and services that community members need and desire,leading to greater buy-in and a higher likelihood of success.Integrate mental wellness into existing

326、support systems.Community support systems,including our health,education,social service,and volunteer systems,play a critical role in fostering a communitys resilience.Social workers,teachers,local service providers,emergency personnel,and personal caregivers all have the potential to aid in mental

327、wellness promotion.Likewise,other community care providers,such as sports coaches,barbers,volunteers,spiritual leaders,and even prison workers,can support the communitys mental wellness.There are many ways to use existing support systems and engage community care professionals in mental wellness pro

328、motion:Encouraging community care professionals who support marginalized and at-risk populations to teach their clients mental wellness practices.Offering group yoga in health clinics,assisted living and senior facilities,food aid facilities,or community volunteer centers.Collaborating with communit

329、y businesses to fund or host community socials or group meditation events.Creating green spaces in residential facilities,schools,and religious centers for walking,contemplation,or social gathering.Encouraging public and private insurers to cover the cost of empirically based mental wellness practic

330、es and techniques.Wellness Policy Toolkit:Mental Wellness|45Use collaboration to widen impact.Stakeholders can collectively finance programs and improvements to existing environments.Mental wellness policies can bring public and private actors together to discuss issues and needs,share information,a

331、nd brainstorm innovative ideas.In nations with less robust mental wellness programs,multi-sector organizational collaboration and public-private partnerships will improve access and expand resources.Engaging community leaders and local nonprofits can help to ensure culturally relevant and sustainabl

332、e programs and activities.One approach is to create community mental wellness councils with representation from local businesses,faith groups,community organizations,and government actors.Councils representing diverse groups can help to identify needs,priorities,existing opportunities,and programmin

333、g options.For example,the U.S.Prevention Institute facilitates public-private partnerships and collaborations in communities to promote mental wellness and well-being for at-risk populations.The U.S.State of Minnesota has established an online hub,MN Thrives,to encourage information sharing among public and nonprofit community service providers and to highlight successful community well-being prog