Food, Music, and Novelas: A Roadmap for Psychiatry at the Intersections of Culture, Resilience and Mental Health Equity-View Presentation

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The session "A Roadmap for Psychiatry at the Intersections of Culture, Resilience, and Mental Health Equity" was led by Lisa Fortuna from the University of California, San Francisco. It featured diverse presentations exploring how cultural elements enhance resilience and mental health equity. Dr. Germán Vélez, a child and adolescent psychiatry trainee, introduced strategies to incorporate cultural practices, such as food and music, into mental health frameworks to foster resilience. He discussed the interaction between diet, mental health, and cultural identity, citing examples like Colombian foods' comfort and familiarity value.<br /><br />Brenda Cartagena, a psychiatry fellow, illustrated the impact of media on cultural resilience. She highlighted how Mexican telenovelas adapted to include LGBTQ+ themes, enhancing visibility and promoting acceptance in Latin communities. Her children's book on PTSD, aimed at decreasing mental health disparities, was praised for its accessibility and cultural relevance.<br /><br />The Somos Esenciales group, comprising community partners from San Francisco, focused on participatory research highlighting the community's resilience during COVID-19. Their research underscored the importance of cultural activities and community spaces in mental health. They advocate for a Cultural Center for Mental Health to continue fostering community wellness through shared cultural practices.<br /><br />The session concluded with an emphasis on building community partnerships, engaging with local cultures, and supporting community-led initiatives to broaden the scope and impact of mental health resources. The presentations collectively underscored culture’s role in mental health resilience, emphasizing community-driven approaches and multi-faceted media strategies.

Keywords

psychiatry

culture

resilience

mental health equity

cultural practices

community partnerships

media impact

LGBTQ+ themes

cultural identity

participatory research

community wellness

mental health resources