Church Leaders in Africa West Area Promote Mental Health through Self-Reliance Initiatives
13 May 2025, 11:59 a.m. MDT
In a transformative initiative, Church leaders and members in the Africa West Area of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are embracing principles of self-reliance, mental health, and emotional resilience. This shift is largely attributed to open conversations and training programs offered by Family Services, aimed at addressing the social and emotional needs of the community.
Tamara Esi Dadson, a Family Services agency manager, has been pivotal in this movement. Traveling extensively throughout 17 countries, including Ghana and Nigeria, she educates local leaders on addressing the emotional wellness of their congregations. Initially, many viewed mental health as a topic only relevant to those suffering from severe issues, often leading to reluctance in discussing it openly. As a result, the journey toward emotional understanding has been met with both obstacles and triumphs.
Reflecting on her experiences, Dadson noted, “When I first started, nobody wanted to be associated with anything about mental health.” However, as understanding has grown, so too has the willingness of leaders and members to engage in these essential conversations. The Gospel Library app has even become a tool for disseminating vital information on topics like grief, addiction, and, crucially, mental health.
One notable situation occurred during a visit to a rural ward where a leader utilized the app to introduce members to the Life Help section. This resource is replete with guidance for navigating life’s challenges, highlighting the Church’s proactive approach to mental wellness.
Such engagement resonates deeply with biblical principles. The Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 1:7 that "God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and self-discipline." This scriptural truth underscores the initiative’s focus on promoting resilience, highlighting the importance of mental fortitude in overcoming life’s trials.
Dadson’s work has not only fostered individual healing but has also created a safe space for Church members to discuss their struggles. “Members feel like they don’t have to hide. They can go to their leader and talk because mental health is now openly discussed in sacrament meetings,” she shared. This shift in culture demonstrates a growing recognition of the need for emotional support within the community.
As Dadson further reflects on her mission, she shares humbling anecdotes of traveling back to Nigeria. During her training there, she connected with individuals touched by her parents’ past service as mission leaders. Standing in a packed meetinghouse, she realized that their eagerness to learn stemmed from a profound trust in the Church and its teachings.
This realization affirms the belief that spiritually guided actions lead to tangible community blessings. Dadson expressed, “This is the Lord’s work. He takes you where He needs you.” Her heartfelt commitment embodies the spirit of service and compassion echoed throughout biblical narratives.
In light of these developments, the Church continues to provide various resources to support leaders and members facing emotional and social challenges. These initiatives encourage individuals to pursue growth and healing in alignment with their spiritual beliefs.
As we ponder the broader implications of this movement, let us remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 11:28—“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” This invitation speaks to the heart of emotional wellness, encouraging each person to seek understanding and support in their journey.
In this season of renewal and growth, we are reminded to foster empathy and openness in our communities. As we do so, we not only honor our individual paths but also strengthen the collective spirit, embracing the teachings of love, resilience, and self-reliance.
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